The Delaware Blue Hens women’s basketball squad endured a challenging road game Thursday evening, suffering a 62-36 defeat against Florida International University at Miami’s Ocean Bank Convocation Center.
The loss brings Delaware’s record to 12-14 for the season and 6-8 in Conference USA competition. Meanwhile, the Panthers boosted their standing to 16-9 overall with a 9-5 conference record following the victory.
The Blue Hens struggled offensively throughout the contest, managing just 36 points against FIU’s defense. The 26-point margin represents a significant setback for Delaware as they continue their conference schedule.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul has abandoned her initiative to bring self-driving taxi services to smaller communities throughout the state, according to a statement from her office released Thursday.
A spokesperson for the governor explained that after discussions with various interested parties, including state legislators, it became apparent there wasn’t sufficient backing to move forward with the plan. “Based on conversations with stakeholders, including in the legislature, it was clear that the support was not there to advance this proposal,” the spokesperson said.
The decision represents a significant disappointment for Alphabet’s autonomous vehicle division, Waymo, which last year obtained its initial authorization to test self-driving cars in New York City, though still requiring a trained operator in the driver’s seat.
Waymo currently operates fee-based autonomous ride services for customers in multiple metropolitan areas, including the San Francisco Bay region, portions of Los Angeles, Phoenix, Austin, Atlanta, and several other locations. The company had been looking forward to expanding its substantial presence in the robotaxi industry and reaching additional customers.
A Waymo representative expressed disappointment with the governor’s choice but emphasized the company’s continued commitment to serving New York residents. “While we are disappointed by the Governor’s decision, we’re committed to bringing our service to New York and will work with the State Legislature to advance this issue,” the spokesperson said.
The representative also noted strong interest from New York residents who have used the service elsewhere. “We hear from thousands of New Yorkers who have experienced Waymo in other cities and want access to it at home,” the spokesperson added.
The autonomous vehicle industry continues to encounter significant hurdles in achieving widespread commercial adoption, particularly as the technology faces intense examination regarding safety issues following various incidents involving self-driving cars.
Adam Kovacevich, who leads the Chamber of Progress, criticized the governor’s withdrawal of the proposal, arguing that autonomous vehicles have demonstrated safety benefits in other states. “Autonomous vehicles are already driving down accident rates and improving pedestrian safety in Arizona, California, and Texas. It’s disappointing that Governor Hochul is withdrawing her proposal, because New Yorkers deserve the same proven protections,” Kovacevich said.
Ning Zhongyan of China claimed his first Olympic championship Thursday by capturing the men’s 1,500-meter speed skating competition at the Milano Cortina Winter Olympics, delivering China its inaugural speed skating medal at these Games.
The victory marks a career milestone for Ning, who secured China’s first podium finish in speed skating events during this Olympic competition held in Milan.
Team USA’s Jordan Stolz finished in second place to claim the silver medal, while the Netherlands’ Kjeld Nuis rounded out the medal ceremony by taking home the bronze.
The stage is set for an epic showdown as Team USA prepares to battle Canada Thursday in the Olympic women’s ice hockey championship game.
For decades, Canada dominated the international women’s hockey scene, establishing themselves as the sport’s premier powerhouse. However, an American victory in Thursday’s final could accomplish more than simply adding a third Olympic gold medal to their collection — it might demonstrate that the traditional hierarchy in women’s hockey has fundamentally changed.
The matchup promises to be a thrilling conclusion to what has been an exciting Olympic tournament, with both nations bringing their best talent to compete for hockey’s ultimate prize.
Home mortgage rates dropped this week to their lowest point in more than three years, though they continue hovering around the 6% mark where they’ve stayed throughout this year.
According to mortgage giant Freddie Mac’s Thursday report, the standard 30-year home loan rate decreased to 6.01% from the previous week’s 6.09%. This represents a significant drop from the 6.85% rate recorded one year ago.
This slight reduction marks the lowest mortgage rate since September 8, 2022, when it stood at 5.89% — the last time rates dipped below the 6% threshold.
The timing of this rate decrease could benefit the upcoming spring homebuying season, offering encouraging news for potential buyers who can manage purchases at these current rates.
Additionally, 15-year fixed-rate mortgages, which homeowners often choose when refinancing, also saw a decrease this week. These rates dropped to 5.35% from 5.44% the previous week, compared to 6.04% one year ago, according to Freddie Mac’s data.
Several elements affect mortgage rates, including Federal Reserve policy decisions and bond market investors’ economic and inflation forecasts. These rates typically mirror the movement of the 10-year Treasury yield, which lenders reference when setting home loan prices.
On Thursday at midday, the 10-year Treasury yield stood at 4.08%, slightly down from approximately 4.09% seven days earlier.
While mortgage rates have been declining for several months and contributed to increased home sales during the final four months of 2025, this improvement hasn’t been sufficient to revive the housing market from its downturn that began in 2022 when rates started rising from pandemic-era record lows.
Home sales for previously owned properties remained at 30-year low levels last year. Despite more favorable mortgage rates this year, home sales couldn’t maintain momentum last month, experiencing their largest monthly decline in nearly four years and the slowest annual sales rate in over two years.
Trading activity in the cash cattle markets continues to show little movement during midday hours. Market participants have yet to establish clear bid and offer prices for livestock transactions.
Industry analysts anticipate that meat packing companies will increase their market inquiries as trading hours progress. However, based on patterns observed in recent weeks, the majority of cattle trading activity is expected to be delayed until late Friday afternoon.
Market watchers are particularly focused on the upcoming Cattle on Feed report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, which could influence trading decisions and pricing trends.
NEW YORK — Financial pressures have forced New York’s Metropolitan Opera to announce its most limited season in more than six decades, with only 17 productions planned for 2026-27.
The opera company revealed Thursday that this upcoming season will feature the smallest number of productions since the Met relocated to Lincoln Center in 1966. The schedule includes just five brand-new stagings, while three crowd-favorite operas will dominate the calendar with 71 out of 187 total performances: Puccini’s “Tosca” and “La Bohème,” plus Verdi’s “Aida.”
“It makes more sense for us, and this is an experiment — to present these works in extended runs,” explained Met general manager Peter Gelb. “And by double-casting them, it also is more economic in terms of how many different shows are playing in one week.”
The company is seeing some positive signs at the box office, with ticket sales reaching 72% this season compared to 70% during the first half of 2024-25.
“Basically, it’s back to pre-pandemic levels,” Gelb noted. “We’re not grossing as much money because the average price per ticket is slightly less than it was, because we have a younger audience and more discounted tickets.”
The current season’s opener, Mason Bates’ “The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier & Clay,” proved particularly successful with 84% ticket sales for its world premiere, leading the Met to add four extra performances this month.
“One of my goals at the Met is to stimulate new audiences with new works,” Gelb said. “This one was one of the most successful we’ve presented so far.”
Other strong performers this season included an English-language holiday version of Mozart’s “The Magic Flute” at 83% capacity, Bellini’s “I Puritani” at 82%, and Puccini’s “Turandot” at 77%. Puccini’s “Madama Butterfly” reached 74%, “The Gershwin’s Porgy and Bess” hit 73%, while Donizetti’s “La Fille du Régiment,” Bizet’s “Carmen,” Bellini’s “La Sonnambula” and “Bohème” each sold 68% of available seats.
Less successful were Mozart’s “Don Giovanni” and Strauss’ “Arabella,” both at 64%, and Giordano’s “Andrea Chenier” at 57%.
The upcoming season launches September 22 with a fresh staging of Verdi’s “Macbeth” featuring soprano Lise Davidsen under the direction of Louisa Proske.
Composer Missy Mazzoli’s “Lincoln in the Bardo,” adapted from George Saunders’ acclaimed novel, will have its world premiere October 19. The production stars Christine Goerke, Stephanie Blythe, Anthony Roth Costanzo and Peter Mattei, with staging by Lileana Blain-Cruz.
Three productions new to the Met’s repertoire are also planned: Janáček’s “Jenůfa” starring Asmik Grigorian in Claus Guth’s staging that first appeared at London’s Royal Opera in 2021 (November 16); Puccini’s “La Fanciulla del West” with Sondra Radvanovsky and SeokJong Baek in Richard Jones’ production that debuted at English National Opera in 2014 (December 31); and the company premiere of Kevin Puts’ “Silent Night” featuring Elza van den Heever and Rolando Villazon in James Robinson’s staging, recently seen at Houston Grand Opera (March 8, 2027).
A star-studded gala featuring more than two dozen performers is set for May 25, 2027, celebrating the company’s 60th anniversary at Lincoln Center.
“We’re in a kind of golden age of opera singing,” Gelb observed. “The only difference between today and 30 or 40 years ago is that 30 or 40 years ago opera was much more in the cultural mainstream.”
“Lincoln” won’t be among the eight productions broadcast to movie theaters, as post-pandemic audiences for these simulcasts have declined.
“A title that is unknown, even with whatever maximum efforts of marketing and publicity that are done, will underperform to a degree where it is not really financially viable for the movie theaters or for us,” Gelb explained.
Budget constraints forced the postponement of Simon McBurney’s staging of Mussorgsky’s “Khovanshchina,” part of cost-cutting measures that included 22 layoffs and temporary salary reductions of 4-15%.
“Unfortunately, I have to wear two hats,” Gelb said. “I have to wear my artistic hat, and I have to wear my financial hat.”
The upcoming season marks Gelb’s 20th year as general manager, and he plans to step down when his current contract ends in 2030.
“That certainly is our current plan,” Gelb confirmed.
NEW DELHI (AP) — What was supposed to be a unified display of global AI cooperation turned into an uncomfortable viral moment Thursday when two competing tech executives refused to join hands during a photo opportunity in India.
During the India AI Impact Summit in New Delhi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi brought together 13 artificial intelligence company leaders on stage as part of his vision for more “inclusive and multilingual” AI development worldwide.
Modi grabbed the hands of those nearest to him — OpenAI’s Sam Altman on his left side and Google’s Sundar Pichai on his right — then encouraged the entire group to raise their joined hands together in a theatrical finale-style gesture.
While most participants linked hands as requested, Altman and Amodei, who were standing side by side, conspicuously avoided any physical contact for several uncomfortable seconds. Both men eventually raised their fists in the air instead of joining the human chain.
The tense moment rapidly spread across social media platforms, with many viewers interpreting it as a perfect representation of the fierce competition dominating the artificial intelligence sector, especially between OpenAI and Anthropic.
Altman later downplayed any significance behind the incident during a video conversation with Indian news organization Moneycontrol. “I didn’t know what was happening,” Altman explained. “I was sort of confused, like when (Modi) grabbed my hand and put it up, and I just wasn’t sure what we were supposed to be doing.”
Anthropic chose not to provide any statement regarding the situation.
The tension between these two AI companies stems from their shared history and current rivalry. Before establishing Anthropic, Amodei was employed at OpenAI until he departed in 2021 along with several colleagues, including his sister Daniela Amodei, to launch their competing venture.
Anthropic positioned itself as having a stronger commitment to developing safe artificial general intelligence — the advanced technology that both San Francisco-based companies are working to create.
OpenAI launched ChatGPT in late 2022, demonstrating the massive commercial possibilities of AI language models capable of composing emails, writing code, and responding to user questions. Anthropic introduced its competing product, Claude, the following year in 2023.
The companies’ contrasting philosophies became publicly apparent earlier this month when Anthropic broadcast Super Bowl advertisements that mocked OpenAI’s decision to incorporate digital advertisements into free and lower-cost ChatGPT versions.
Anthropic has focused its business strategy on selling Claude directly to corporate clients, while OpenAI has embraced advertising revenue to support the hundreds of millions of users accessing ChatGPT without charge. Altman responded to the Super Bowl commercials on social media, calling them misleading.
From her apartment balcony in Tehran, an Iranian teacher called out into the night air: “Death to the dictator!” and “Death to the murderer, Khamenei!” Her voice joined a chorus of similar cries echoing from windows and rooftops throughout her middle-class neighborhood.
When a few voices responded with pro-government slogans supporting Iran’s Islamic Republic, neighbors quickly silenced them. “Shut up! Choke on it!” they yelled back, overwhelming the government supporters, the teacher told The Associated Press. She requested anonymity due to safety concerns.
Citizens throughout Iran continue to grapple with trauma, sorrow and terror following the violent suppression of widespread demonstrations – marking the most lethal government response during 86-year-old Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei’s reign. The crackdown resulted in thousands of deaths and tens of thousands of arrests.
Despite the brutal response, resistance endures. Social media footage and protester interviews reveal deep-seated fury toward Iran’s leadership. However, three demonstrators contacted by the AP also described feelings of hopelessness about achieving change after hundreds of thousands courageously took to the streets, only to face overwhelming government violence. All protesters requested anonymity to avoid punishment or detention.
The situation grows more complex with America’s military threats against Iran. U.S. naval vessels and combat aircraft have been deployed to the region while nuclear negotiations continue between the two nations.
Nighttime rooftop chanting represents one form of ongoing resistance, echoing tactics from previous protest movements.
Another manifestation appears during memorial services for those killed 40 days prior. These ceremonies – called “chehelom,” meaning “the 40th” in Persian – traditionally honor any deceased person. During periods of civil unrest, however, these gatherings take on political significance.
This week commemorates 40 days since January 8 and 9, when the deadliest violence occurred. Multiple online videos show 40-day ceremonies across Iranian towns and cities. Some gatherings attracted hundreds of participants who frequently erupted in anti-government chanting.
Many ceremonies take on celebratory tones, with friends and family members of deceased protesters singing and scattering flowers – deliberately contrasting the somber atmosphere the state promotes at official events. Most participants avoid using “shaheed” (martyr), a term with Islamic religious meaning, instead choosing “javid nam,” a Persian expression meaning “Long live the name.”
AP-verified videos from this week captured hundreds gathered at the central cemetery in Abdanan, a small western Iranian town, chanting “Death to Khamenei” and raising their fists during the chehelom for Alireza Seydi, a 16-year-old killed January 8. The footage shows security forces firing from armored vehicles, releasing clouds of apparent tear gas that scattered the crowd.
During Iran’s 1979 Islamic Revolution that overthrew the shah and established the current government, 40-day memorials for killed protesters frequently became rallies that security forces attempted to crush, creating new casualties – which would then be commemorated 40 days later with fresh protests.
Social media reports indicate security forces are working to prevent people from attending some chehelom ceremonies.
“For every person killed, a thousand more stand behind him,” several hundred people chanted Tuesday in the eastern city of Mashhad during the chehelom for Hamid Mahdavi, according to AP-verified video. When police officers bothered some people honoring Mahdavi, a firefighter shot dead during January protests, the crowd responded: “Shameless! Shameless!”
The government conducted its own chehelom for the deceased, with the Revolutionary Guard issuing a statement portraying them as casualties of violence by foreign-supported armed “terrorist” organizations that exploited “legitimate public demands.” The statement described the 40-day commemoration as “a chance to renew commitment to national unity.”
“More than sad, people are angry. Everyone is so angry. Everyone is waiting for some kind of explosion,” said a Karaj resident from the city near Tehran.
He participated in street demonstrations on January 8 and 9 and reported that five relatives and family friends died when security forces fired on protesters.
The Human Rights Activists News Agency has documented over 7,000 deaths and believes the actual number is much higher. Iran’s government provided its sole death count on January 21, claiming 3,117 people died while characterizing many protesters as “terrorists.”
“I don’t know anyone around me who doesn’t know someone who was killed, or someone who was arrested or wounded,” the 26-year-old Tehran teacher said. Two of her acquaintances died and her co-worker’s husband was arrested, she reported.
Iranians also face a rapidly deteriorating economy as their currency loses value dramatically.
Prices increase daily, the Karaj resident explained. “We are getting near an economic collapse,” he said. “Buying fruit has become a luxury.”
A north Tehran resident working in tourism who joined last month’s protests noted that with the Persian New Year approaching in March, the bazaar would typically bustle with shoppers, but not currently.
“It’s a combination of grieving, lack of money and inflation,” he said, describing people in the capital as experiencing “mass depression.”
The somber atmosphere has affected Iran’s usually dynamic cultural scene. One prominent actress announced she would no longer accept new roles “in this land that smells of blood.”
Alireza Ostad Haji, who officiates a popular television strongman competition, expressed condolences to “all mourning families” in an Instagram post and resigned from two national athletic committees. He wept while discussing former bodybuilding champion Masoud Zatparvar, who was killed. “He was not a terrorist, he was a protester,” he stated.
Many fear that street demonstrations cannot create change when confronted with the state’s massive use of force.
Both the Karaj resident and the Tehran tourism worker expressed support for Reza Pahlavi, son of the deposed shah, who has positioned himself as a leader of Iran’s fractured opposition from exile. Pahlavi has promoted protests and urged the U.S. to attack Iran.
Measuring Pahlavi’s support throughout Iran remains impossible. However, during January’s protest wave, chants supporting him became common – a significant shift from the past when the shah’s son received little attention domestically or was viewed as disconnected.
Some are taking previously unthinkable steps – expressing hope for American military action.
“Every night, every hour, I wish I could hear (U.S.) strikes,” the tourism worker said. “We cannot fight anymore with our fists against machine guns.” He said many friends who demonstrated with him in January refuse to protest again due to state violence.
The teacher, while having joined previous protests, stayed home in January because she opposed expressions of Pahlavi support.
However, she said some friends who also reject the shah’s son participated in January protests and even chanted “Long live the shah!”
“People have become very tired, and they see no alternative,” she explained.
She worries a U.S. attack would bring war, civil conflict and additional bloodshed.
“I am afraid there will be more massacres,” she said.
ROME — A traditionalist Catholic organization has turned down the Vatican’s invitation for negotiations, setting the stage for a major confrontation with Pope Leo XIV regarding unauthorized bishop appointments scheduled for this summer.
The Society of St. Pius X delivered a formal response Thursday to Vatican leadership, stating that Rome’s warnings of penalties and potential schism over the planned July 1 consecration ceremony “is hardly compatible with a genuine desire for fraternal exchanges and constructive dialogue.”
This traditionalist organization, commonly referred to as SSPX, maintains the traditional Latin Mass format and was established in opposition to Vatican II, the transformative 1960s church meetings that modernized Catholicism and permitted Mass to be conducted in local languages.
The organization severed ties with Rome in 1988 when its founding leader, Archbishop Marcel Lefebvre, appointed four bishops without receiving papal approval, claiming this action was essential to preserve church traditions. Vatican officials immediately excommunicated Lefebvre and the four bishops, leaving the organization without official church recognition to this day.
Since that initial break from Rome decades ago, the organization has expanded significantly, establishing educational institutions, seminaries and parishes worldwide. Current membership includes 733 priests, 264 seminarians, 145 religious brothers, 88 oblates and 250 religious sisters — creating what Vatican officials view as a concerning parallel church structure.
This month, SSPX leadership announced plans to consecrate four additional bishops on July 1, noting that only two remain from the original group. Organization officials stated these new appointments are necessary for organizational survival and to serve their growing global membership.
This planned consecration represents the first significant challenge for Pope Leo XIV, who has worked to improve relationships with Catholic traditionalists that deteriorated under Pope Francis. Although SSPX operates outside Vatican authority, many traditionalist Catholics who remain loyal to Rome while sympathizing with SSPX are closely monitoring Leo’s response.
Attempting to prevent this crisis, Vatican doctrine leader Cardinal Víctor Manuel Fernández extended an invitation to SSPX leader Rev. Davide Pagliarani for February 12 discussions at the Vatican. Fernández suggested theological conversations about Vatican II, contingent on SSPX postponing the consecration ceremony.
In his written response published on the SSPX website Thursday, Pagliarani noted he had requested similar discussions in 2019 without receiving any response. He declared that doctrinal conversations under current circumstances would be futile, emphasizing their fundamental disagreement with Vatican II reforms.
“Indeed, the hand extended to open the dialogue is unfortunately accompanied by another hand already poised to impose sanctions,” he wrote. “There is talk of breaking communion, of schism, and of ‘serious consequences.’”
Rather than seeking doctrinal agreement, Pagliarani appealed to Vatican leadership to show compassion toward the numerous Catholic faithful who worship at SSPX churches.
“The society is an objective reality: it exists,” Pagliarani wrote. “This same society asks you only to be allowed to continue to do this same good for the souls to whom it administers the holy sacraments.”
Vatican representatives declined to provide immediate commentary on the matter.
Federal trade officials announced that the Trump administration is implementing measures to tackle the nation’s agricultural trade deficit. During remarks at the USDA Agricultural Outlook Forum, Julie Callahan from the U.S. Trade Representative office explained the administration’s comprehensive approach targeting both import and export policies.
“I can’t emphasize enough how unprecedented our work is at USTR, and our trading partners are understanding, coming to” understand the new direction, Callahan stated to forum participants.
The trade representative emphasized that the administration’s strategy involves a dual approach to resolve agricultural trade imbalances affecting American farmers and producers.
COLUMBIA, S.C. — South Carolina legislators are moving forward with plans to shield college athlete compensation details from public view, as senators expressed concerns about their state’s teams falling behind in the competitive recruiting landscape.
The state appears ready to follow Arkansas, Utah, Colorado, and Kentucky in exempting athletic team and player payments from public disclosure requirements. The Senate gave initial approval to the measure Tuesday, following the House’s passage last month with only two dissenting votes.
During floor debate, nearly all senators who spoke expressed frustration with the NCAA’s handling of Name, Image and Likeness regulations, the transfer portal system allowing annual school switches, and the dramatic transformation of college athletics.
“I think we have taken a wrecking ball to college sports. I played two sports, and I think it’s been a horrible radical change,” stated Republican Sen. Chip Campsen, who played defensive back for The Citadel’s 1978 football team and still holds a top-10 pole vault record at the school.
Supporters of the legislation argued that inaction before the General Assembly’s May 2026 conclusion could result in consequences more severe than South Carolina’s disappointing 4-8 season or Clemson’s 7-6 record in 2025.
Advocates warned that transparent payment information would allow competing schools to make superior offers and potentially recruit entire rosters. They also noted that even team-level spending totals could enable rivals to calculate individual payrolls or create internal conflicts over resource allocation.
“We are going to be putting our schools and our athletic programs at a competitive disadvantage. I get it. I don’t have to like it,” commented Democratic state Sen. Russell Ott.
Approximately half of all states have introduced or enacted NIL legislation since early 2025, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures. Many universities have already declined to release contract information, citing student privacy protections.
Before a final vote that would send the measure to the governor, senators scheduled a hearing for next week to gather additional details from athletic directors regarding state funding involvement in athletic programs.
South Carolina’s urgency stems from ongoing litigation. An open government advocate filed suit against the University of South Carolina in September after the institution denied a Freedom of Information Act request for payment information.
Frank Heindel, who initiated the lawsuit, argued that secrecy prevents athletes from making well-informed career decisions and eliminates oversight of the more than $20 million the NCAA permits each school to spend on athletes—unlike professional leagues such as the NFL and NBA that publish salary data.
“Under this bill, the public would not know whether football receives $18 million while women’s sports receive $500,000, or whether one position group is paid dramatically more than another. We are asked to simply trust that public money is being distributed fairly, without any ability to verify it,” Heindel stated in written comments to senators.
A judge has temporarily suspended Heindel’s case pending the legislature’s action this session.
Republican Sen. Tom Young, who guided the bill through the chamber, cautioned colleagues that a veteran lawmaker once advised him that the fastest way to upset constituents is interfering with their entertainment—specifically “fins, fur, feathers and football.”
Due to time constraints, coaches did not personally lobby lawmakers this session. Instead, athletic directors submitted letters describing the agreements as containing “highly sensitive personal and financial information.”
“Subjecting these agreements to public disclosure would raise serious privacy concerns for our student-athletes, potentially exposing them to undue public scrutiny and creating risks well beyond the playing field,” wrote Clemson athletics director Graham Neff.
Heindel indicated he would accept redaction of personal details while maintaining financial transparency.
Patrick Rishe, director of the sports business program at Washington University in St. Louis, explained that confidentiality also prevents athletes from understanding their market worth—such as whether running backs earn more at certain schools or conferences. This opacity encourages rule-bending similar to past decades when players might receive vehicles or cash payments secretly.
“The competition for top talent is so ruthless that universities and boosters want some degree of lawlessness,” Rishe observed.
Rishe predicted state legislatures will continue intervening in college athletics, with courts resolving disputes, until the NCAA persuades Congress to establish uniform national standards.
Meanwhile, lawmakers like Republican South Carolina Sen. Michael Johnson—who displays an Auburn sticker on his truck—acknowledged the responsibility to protect in-state programs.
“As an Auburn graduate, I’m thrilled to get you information and pick through and get your best athletes,” Johnson remarked. “But as someone who understands what’s good for the game, I tend to support this bill.”
WASHINGTON — Officials from nearly 50 nations converged on the nation’s capital Thursday for the inaugural gathering of the Board of Peace, marking a significant diplomatic milestone.
The historic summit included 27 countries that have formally joined the board as full members, while additional nations and the European Union participated in an observer capacity.
During opening remarks, President Donald Trump revealed that nine member countries had committed a total of $7 billion in humanitarian assistance for the war-torn Gaza Strip.
The comprehensive list of participating nations included regional powers and allies from across the globe. Full board members in attendance were Albania, Argentina, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Bulgaria, Cambodia, Egypt, El Salvador, Hungary, Indonesia, Israel, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, Kuwait, Mongolia, Morocco, Pakistan, Paraguay, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, Uzbekistan, and Vietnam.
Observer nations that joined the proceedings included Austria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Finland, Germany, Greece, India, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Netherlands, Norway, Oman, Poland, South Korea, Romania, Slovakia, Switzerland, Thailand, and the United Kingdom. The European Union also participated as an observer.
The diverse representation at the summit demonstrates the international community’s commitment to collaborative peace-building efforts across multiple regions and continents.
Federal civil rights officials have taken legal action against a regional Coca-Cola bottling company, claiming the business engaged in sex-based discrimination by hosting a work event that barred male employees from attending.
The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission brought the lawsuit on behalf of a male worker at Coca-Cola Beverages Northeast, who raised concerns about being shut out of a two-day professional networking gathering in September 2024. The event, held at Connecticut’s Mohegan Sun casino resort, welcomed approximately 250 female staff members but excluded men entirely.
Federal prosecutors filed the case Tuesday in New Hampshire’s district court, arguing that the Bedford, New Hampshire-based bottling operation violated the Civil Rights Act of 1964 by preventing male workers from participating in the company-sponsored event.
This legal challenge represents part of a broader pattern under the Trump administration’s restructured EEOC, which has increasingly scrutinized diversity initiatives. The timing follows closely behind the agency’s announcement that it’s examining Nike for potential discrimination against white workers through its diversity programs.
Acting EEOC General Counsel Catherine L. Eschbach stated Wednesday: “Excluding men from an employer-sponsored event is a Title VII violation that the EEOC will act to remedy through litigation when necessary.”
Court filings reveal that federal officials pursued the lawsuit after unsuccessful attempts to negotiate a settlement with Coca-Cola Beverage Northeast, an independent bottling operation covering New England and upstate New York territories.
However, company representatives pushed back against the federal action. In a response to The Associated Press, Coca-Cola Northeast expressed disappointment, saying the agency “did not conduct a full investigation and we look forward to having our day in open court when we can tell the full story and expect to be vindicated.”
The bottling company refused to provide additional details about the legal proceedings.
Social media posts from Coca-Cola Northeast highlighted what the company termed its inaugural “Women’s Forum,” featuring 250 female team members at what was described as a professional networking gathering. Event programming included discussions about succeeding in male-dominated fields, managing work-life balance, and related professional development topics.
According to the EEOC’s complaint, the company covered accommodation costs, meals, and additional expenses for participants while maintaining their regular pay during the event and excusing them from normal job responsibilities. Federal officials are pursuing financial damages for male employees who were left out, arguing they experienced both monetary harm and “emotional pain, suffering, inconvenience, mental anguish.”
The EEOC accompanied its announcement with guidance about diversity-related discrimination, highlighting concerns about training programs, employee groups, and fellowship initiatives. While the document doesn’t label specific practices as unlawful, it cautions that such programs could cross into discriminatory territory based on their design.
EEOC Chair Andrea Lucas, selected by Trump, has consistently criticized many corporate diversity efforts. Last month, Lucas used social media to encourage white male workers who believe they’ve faced workplace discrimination to speak up.
Former Democratic EEOC members and civil rights advocates have criticized her approach, arguing it threatens established practices that courts have supported and that aim to prevent discrimination while removing barriers for women and minorities.
David Glasgow, who co-founded NYU School of Law’s Meltzer Center for Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging and tracks anti-diversity lawsuits, noted that targeted demographic programs like networking events face particular vulnerability to legal challenges.
Glasgow recommended that organizations “shift ‘from cohorts to content,’ meaning that instead of limiting participation based on cohort, they could open it up to anyone who is committed to the content of the program.” He co-authored “How Equality Wins,” offering guidance for organizations dealing with diversity policy backlash.
Most lawsuits targeting such focused programs end in settlements after organizations agree to open participation to all employees, Glasgow explained.
He questioned the current EEOC’s priorities, telling AP via email: “It’s a bit odd that the current iteration of the EEOC thinks that going after regional companies for hosting a two-day women’s retreat is a good use of limited resources at a time when there is still extensive discrimination against women in the workplace.”
The EEOC did not respond to requests for additional comment regarding the lawsuit.
PROVIDENCE, R.I. — What Michael Black initially mistook for the sound of balloons popping at a hockey game quickly turned into a nightmare when he realized gunshots were echoing through the Rhode Island arena. While crowds fled in panic, Black shouted for his wife to “run, run” before making a split-second decision to charge toward the gunman.
Black succeeded in jamming his left hand into the chamber of Robert Dorgan’s weapon, temporarily disabling it before attempting to wrestle the shooter to the ground. However, Dorgan, who had a background in bodybuilding, lifted Black off his feet until two additional Good Samaritans arrived to help overpower the attacker. Video footage captured one person placing Dorgan in a chokehold.
The gunman collapsed with Black on top of him, but the confrontation ended tragically when Dorgan produced a second firearm and shot himself while making eye contact with Black. Throughout the entire encounter, Black said Dorgan remained completely silent.
“The first thought was the safety of my wife. And the second thought was, because the bullets were coming out, was to focus in on the gun,” Black explained. “Get the gun and then subdue the shooter.”
Pawtucket authorities identified the gunman as Robert Dorgan, who also used the names Roberta Esposito and Roberta Dorgano. The Monday evening attack claimed the lives of Dorgan’s former spouse Rhonda Dorgan and their grown son Aidan Dorgan.
Three additional victims suffered injuries in the shooting: Rhonda’s parents Linda and Gerald Dorgan, along with family friend Thomas Geruso. All three remained hospitalized in critical condition as of Wednesday.
According to Pawtucket police, the group of “courageous citizens” who intervened in the attack “undoubtedly prevented further injury and increased the chances of survival for the injured.” Besides Black, Robert Rattenni and Ryan Cordeiro received recognition for subduing the gunman. Additionally, Chris Librizzi and Glenn Narodowy, both former Rhode Island firefighters and EMTs, along with nurse Maryann Rattenni, administered emergency medical care immediately following the shooting.
“I look at it as being fortunate, saddened tremendously in the loss, but fortunate that a small group of people could make a difference,” Black shared during a virtual interview Thursday while visiting colleges in South Carolina with his son.
While investigators have not officially addressed questions about Dorgan’s gender identity, calling such matters irrelevant to their case, divorce documents from 2020 reveal that gender identity issues contributed to the end of Dorgan’s nearly three-decade marriage. Dorgan’s social media presence indicated transgender identity and alignment with far-right political views.
Black described watching Dorgan move deliberately through the seating area, intent on harming more people. While restraining the shooter’s head with his knee, Black observed that Dorgan carried extra ammunition magazines containing “quite a few bullets.”
After Dorgan’s death, witnesses shifted their focus to helping the five shooting victims bleeding among the bleachers. Law enforcement arrived within minutes, and Black, nursing his wounded hand, was led to the parking area where he found his wife waiting.
“My wife saw me and she ran underneath the yellow tape, kind of grabbed me from behind, and we gave a big hug,” Black recalled. “She said, ‘I heard you helped with the shooter. And she says, what’s all the blood? I said, ‘I got my hand caught in the gun.’ And then she said, ‘Honey, I don’t know whether I should be proud of you, but I’m pissed off at you for putting yourself in that situation.’”
While receiving medical treatment at the hospital, a nurse praised Black as a hero — recognition that has been extended to all three men who intervened. Black struggled with accepting that designation.
“I said I don’t feel like I’m a hero right now,” Black reflected. “I looked up and I was feeling for the family. So I started getting some tears in my eyes. And then she got tears in her eyes, too. It was just a moment of decompression at that point.”
NEW YORK — A jury began deliberations Thursday to determine the fate of Randy Santos, who fatally attacked four homeless individuals while they slept on Manhattan streets, with his defense team conceding he carried out the violence but maintaining his severe mental illness should exempt him from criminal liability.
The jury’s initial request Thursday focused on revisiting portions of testimony from a defense mental health expert, specifically questioning whether Santos comprehended the moral implications of his violent acts.
The 31-year-old Santos was taken into custody clutching a blood-covered metal pipe following his October 2019 attack spree. The tragic incident highlighted New York City’s ongoing challenges in supporting and safeguarding its homeless community, which had grown to unprecedented numbers.
Santos himself was without housing, similar to several of his victims. The four deceased men — Chuen Kok, Anthony Manson, Florencio Moran and Nazario Vásquez Villegas — were between 39 and 83 years old. Santos faces murder charges for their deaths, plus attempted murder and assault counts related to attacks on other individuals in the days leading up to the Chinatown violence.
Medical professionals had diagnosed Santos with schizophrenia, and his legal team maintains he genuinely believed auditory hallucinations commanded him to kill 40 people or face death himself.
Defense counsel Arnold Levine argued during Wednesday’s closing statements that while Santos may have understood potential legal consequences, his condition prevented him from grasping the moral wrongness of his actions. This moral component could support an insanity verdict if jurors accept that mental illness caused this impairment.
“The only explanation was Randy’s psychosis. … It’s the only thing that explains what happened,” Levine told the panel, stating that “psychosis replaced Randy’s moral judgment.”
The prosecution contends Santos recognized both the illegality and immorality of his attacks. Manhattan Assistant District Attorney Alfred Peterson highlighted Wednesday that Santos occasionally watched for potential witnesses and later told a psychiatrist in 2024: “I know it’s not a good action.”
“Despite his illness, he was able to make a determination that what he was doing was wrong,” Peterson stated during his closing remarks.
Santos, who was born in the Dominican Republic and follows proceedings through a Spanish interpreter, remained largely expressionless during the attorneys’ final arguments. He briefly moved his hands near his face when Levine described how his delusions had previously led him to attack his own grandfather years before the Chinatown murders.
Should jurors reject the insanity claim and find Santos guilty, he faces potential life imprisonment. However, if they determine he was not mentally responsible, he could face indefinite psychiatric commitment as determined by medical professionals and the court.
A Kenyan intelligence assessment delivered to lawmakers this week reveals that more than 1,000 citizens from Kenya have been enlisted to serve with Russian forces in the Ukraine conflict, representing a dramatic increase from earlier government estimates.
The Russian Embassy in Nairobi rejected claims Thursday that Moscow was conducting illegal recruitment of Kenyan nationals for the Ukraine war, while acknowledging that foreign nationals may voluntarily enlist in Russian military service.
Parliament Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah presented the National Intelligence Service findings to legislators Wednesday, outlining how corrupt government employees worked alongside human trafficking operations to enlist Kenyans for Russia’s military campaign in Ukraine.
The recruitment scheme focused on ex-military personnel, former police officers, and jobless individuals, offering monthly wages of approximately 350,000 shillings ($2,715) plus potential bonuses reaching 1.2 million shillings ($9,309).
“So far over 1,000 Kenyans have been recruited and departed to fight in the Russia-Ukraine war,” Ichung’wah stated.
Kenyan officials reported in November that more than 200 of their nationals were serving with Russian forces in Ukraine.
During that same period, Ukrainian authorities indicated roughly 1,400 people from 36 African nations were fighting with Russian troops on Ukrainian soil, with some enlisted through fraudulent means.
According to the latest intelligence assessment, as of February 2024, 89 Kenyans remained active on Ukraine’s front lines, 39 were receiving medical treatment, and 28 were listed as missing in action.
The report detailed how recruits initially departed Kenya using tourist documentation, traveling to Russia through Turkey or the United Arab Emirates. When Kenyan authorities increased security measures at Nairobi’s airport, the recruitment network shifted operations to routes through Uganda, South Africa, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The intelligence findings indicated that recruitment organizations worked with dishonest Kenyan airport personnel, immigration officers, and other government employees, along with staff from Russia’s Nairobi embassy and Kenya’s Moscow embassy to enable the recruits’ travel.
The Russian Embassy in Kenya issued a statement declaring: “The government authorities of Russia have never engaged in illegal recruitment of Kenyan citizens in the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation.”
Embassy officials stated they had not provided visas to Kenyan nationals seeking to travel to Russia “with the stated purpose of participating in the Special Military Operation (SMO) in Ukraine,” while noting that Russian legislation permits foreign citizens to voluntarily join its armed forces.
A spokesperson for Kenya’s Foreign Ministry was unavailable for immediate comment about its Moscow embassy’s involvement.
Incidents of African men being deceived into traveling to Russia with promises of security work only to end up fighting in Ukraine have increased in recent months, straining diplomatic relations between Moscow and several affected nations.
Four South African nationals who became trapped in Ukraine’s Donbas region returned home Wednesday, representing part of a group of 17 who contacted their government for assistance last year.
Kenya’s foreign ministry announced last week that 27 Kenyan citizens had been rescued after becoming stranded in Russia. Foreign Minister Musalia Mudavadi has indicated plans to travel to Russia next month for discussions regarding this issue.
BORMIO, Italy – A 23-year-old Russian ski mountaineer made Olympic history Thursday by becoming the first individual neutral athlete to earn a medal at the Milano Cortina Winter Games, taking silver in the inaugural men’s ski mountaineering sprint competition.
Nikita Filippov climbed onto the podium as friends cheered “Nikita, Nikita” from the stands, though no Russian flags were visible due to International Olympic Committee regulations. The crowd showed no hostility toward the silver medalist, and fellow athletes expressed no concerns about his participation.
While Filippov noted he hasn’t faced negativity in person during his time in Italy, he acknowledged receiving critical comments on social media platforms. “I don’t care about this,” he stated, choosing instead to focus on the welcoming nature of the ski mountaineering community.
Spanish competitor Ot Ferrer Martinez, who finished fifth, voiced his support: “I’m very happy that Nikita is here and he can compete and show his level.”
The result didn’t shock those familiar with the sport, as Filippov had claimed bronze at a World Cup sprint event in Spain earlier this month. French bronze medalist Thibault Anselmet, who won that February competition, regularly competes alongside the Russian. “Nikita is really strong, he’s a great athlete,” Anselmet commented.
For Filippov, the Olympic medal represented the fulfillment of childhood aspirations, though it came with additional pressure as social media users labeled him the “main hope” for a neutral athlete medal. “I told myself, ‘Just relax, Nikita, do your thing and the medal will come,’” he reflected.
The unique circumstances weren’t lost on the young athlete. “It’s hard because I see other athletes with flags of their nations and wearing uniforms of their nations,” Filippov explained to reporters following his race. “But it’s OK, everybody knows what country I am from, and I’m just happy to be here and to realise my childhood dream.”
Looking ahead, Filippov expressed optimism about future competitions. “I hope next year, after the Olympics – in World Cups and overall in the world – we’ll be no neutral athletes, where we’ll be just like in the past,” he said.
Wall Street’s enthusiasm for major artificial intelligence companies is cooling off, prompting investors to redirect their focus toward infrastructure businesses expected to profit from AI-related spending, according to a new Reuters analysis.
Following massive growth in previous years, technology giants like Alphabet and Amazon have experienced significant stock price drops as market participants question whether returns from their enormous AI investments will support current high valuations. Investment managers report that to capitalize on this spending boom, investors are now targeting the businesses receiving those investment dollars — semiconductor manufacturers, data center construction companies, and utility providers supplying the essential infrastructure powering the AI transformation.
Several infrastructure-related stocks, including Caterpillar, optical communications firm Lumentum, and data storage company Western Digital, have achieved double-digit percentage increases this year. Meanwhile, the S&P 500 has delivered just 0.52% returns, and the Roundhill Magnificent 7 ETF, tracking major AI companies, has dropped 7.3%.
This market performance is driving exchange-traded fund companies including BlackRock, VistaShares, and Impax Asset Management to redesign their investment products and introduce new offerings, with some focusing on diverse and increasingly specialized AI infrastructure investments.
Adam Patti, CEO of VistaShares, explained their strategy for the Artificial Intelligence Supercycle ETF launched in December 2024: “Our goal is that every time someone like Meta or Amazon invests in a data center, the cash registers ring across our portfolio.” The fund gained 58.4% in 2025 and has risen 16.87% this year.
Though the VistaShares ETF holds AI leader Nvidia, the semiconductor company’s portfolio weight is less than half of South Korea’s SK Hynix, whose processors power data centers. Other major holdings include chip manufacturers Micron and Intel.
“When Meta says that it’s going to spend $100 billion, it’s going into these companies,” Patti noted.
Similarly, BlackRock’s iShares A.I. Innovation and Tech Active ETF now allocates 74% of its $8.8 billion in assets to AI infrastructure investments, spanning from chip companies training AI systems to power providers, increasing from 59% twelve months ago. Jay Jacobs, BlackRock’s U.S. head of equity ETFs, said this shift reflects “where the revenues are right now.”
Strong performance from holdings such as Fabrinet and Monolithic Power Systems has driven the fund’s returns to 3.2% this year. The BlackRock fund has attracted $7.9 billion in fresh investment over the past year, based on VettaFi data.
February alone saw two infrastructure ETF launches. Impax Asset Management transformed one of its mutual funds into the Impax Global Infrastructure ETF, while alternative investment manager Harrison Street Asset Management introduced an AI-focused ETF emphasizing electrification.
Robert Becker, chief investment strategist at Harrison Street, emphasized the power challenge: “Securing reliable power sources is one of the biggest constraints in moving forward with all the AI data centers needed.”
Ed Farrington, Impax’s president of North America operations, described infrastructure as a method to diversify overall stock portfolios and what has been a highly concentrated investment strategy for years.
While the major technology companies have maintained strong revenue growth, investors note this success primarily stems from their established business operations, which finance AI capital expenditures expected to reach approximately $630 billion this year.
The search for undervalued infrastructure companies positioned to benefit is directing some investors toward specialized market segments.
Ari Sass, president and portfolio manager of M.D. Sass Investor Services, said companies he previously considered “stealth” AI investments are gaining attention, particularly those helping supply the massive energy requirements for semiconductor manufacturing facilities and data centers.
Quanta Services, providing construction and maintenance for electric utilities, has climbed 24.17% year-to-date.
The Tortoise AI Infrastructure ETF, launched in October, invests in companies like century-old Wisconsin-based Modine Manufacturing, which began by producing radiators for agricultural equipment and has transitioned to supplying data center cooling systems. Its stock has increased 19.25% this year.
As more investors enter the AI infrastructure market, some experts are issuing cautionary warnings. They reference the fiber optic network companies that failed after excessive investment to support internet companies in the 1990s as a historical warning.
Michael Reynolds, vice president of investment strategy at Glenmede, offered this perspective: “It looks as if the spending on AI buildout is coming from financially stronger companies, but at the same time, valuations for anything with AI exposure are getting a bit rich. Everyone needs to exercise some caution.”
President Donald Trump delivered a sharp ultimatum to Iran on Thursday, demanding the nation reach a nuclear agreement or face consequences, while seemingly establishing a 10-day timeframe for action.
Speaking at the inaugural meeting of his Board of Peace in Washington, Trump cautioned that negotiations with Iran are progressing but emphasized Tehran must achieve a substantial agreement.
“Otherwise bad things happen,” Trump declared, continuing his pattern of threatening military action against Iran.
The president referenced the June U.S. airstrikes, claiming Iran’s nuclear capabilities had been “decimated,” before adding “we may have to take it a step further or we may not.”
“You’ll be finding out over the next probably 10 days,” he stated, offering no additional details.
These developments unfold against a backdrop of significant U.S. military deployment in the Middle East, raising concerns about potential broader conflict. The buildup has contributed to rising oil prices, while a Russian corvette warship joined scheduled Iranian naval exercises in the Gulf of Oman on Thursday, highlighting the strategic importance of this global energy corridor.
Recent diplomatic efforts show mixed results. Iranian and American negotiators convened on Tuesday, with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi reporting agreement on “guiding principles.” However, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt acknowledged Wednesday that significant disagreements persist between the parties.
Trump characterized the discussions positively, saying “good talks are being had,” while a senior administration official indicated Iran would submit written proposals addressing American concerns.
The president urged Tehran to embrace the “path to peace” with the United States.
“They can’t have a nuclear weapon, it’s very simple,” Trump emphasized. “You can’t have peace in the Middle East if they have a nuclear weapon.”
Iran continues to resist major compromises regarding its nuclear activities, maintaining these programs serve peaceful objectives. Both the United States and Israel have previously alleged Tehran seeks to develop nuclear weapons capability.
Russia issued warnings Thursday against an “unprecedented escalation of tension” surrounding Iran, calling for restraint as American military forces continue arriving in the region. A senior U.S. official indicated this military positioning should conclude by mid-March.
Trump has deployed aircraft carriers, naval vessels, and fighter aircraft to the area, heightening possibilities of additional strikes against the Islamic Republic.
Last June, the United States and Israel conducted bombing operations targeting Iranian nuclear installations and select military facilities. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is scheduled to meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on February 28 to discuss Iran policy, according to senior officials.
American demands include complete cessation of uranium enrichment activities – a process necessary for nuclear power generation but also potentially for weapons development.
Washington and Tel Aviv additionally seek Iranian abandonment of long-range ballistic missile programs, termination of support for regional militant groups, and ending violent suppression of domestic demonstrations.
Iranian officials reject discussions extending beyond nuclear matters, declaring missile program limitations a non-negotiable boundary.
Satellite imagery has documented Iranian efforts to rebuild and strengthen targeted sites since last summer, revealing activity at both nuclear and missile locations, alongside American base preparations throughout the Middle East in recent weeks.
The Iranian-Russian naval cooperation began during extended Iranian military exercises in the Gulf of Oman, with state television broadcasting footage of special forces operations involving helicopters and naval vessels.
Growing international concern over escalating tensions prompted Poland to become the latest European nation Thursday advising citizens to evacuate Iran, with Prime Minister Donald Tusk warning Poles might have only hours to depart safely.
Trump renewed threats against Iran in January as Iranian authorities violently suppressed nationwide protests, resulting in thousands of deaths across the country.
The Chicago Bears are prepared to invest $2 billion in a new stadium development near Wolf Lake in Northwest Indiana after experiencing difficulties advancing construction projects in their home state of Illinois.
Indiana House Speaker Todd Huston announced Thursday morning that State Bill 27 had been approved, establishing a stadium authority and creating what Indiana Governor Mike Braun described as a “framework for a final agreement” in an official statement.
While this development represents major progress, it does not constitute a legally binding agreement that would definitively end the Bears’ 55-year residency at Soldier Field.
The announcement followed Illinois policymakers canceling a planned session to discuss stadium proposals aimed at retaining the team in or near Chicago. Recent Illinois negotiations centered on taxpayer funding, with the Bears offering to cover more than half the projected costs for potential locations in Arlington Heights, Illinois, or a lakefront reconstruction in Chicago.
An Illinois House committee dedicated to “megaprojects” under the revenue and finance committee canceled its scheduled Thursday morning meeting as the Bears confirmed stadium development was moving forward in the Hammond, Indiana region.
The Bears organization released a statement saying: “The passage of SB 27 would mark the most meaningful step forward in our stadium planning efforts to date. We are committed to finishing the remaining site-specific necessary due diligence to support our vision to build a world-class stadium near the Wolf Lake area in Hammond, Indiana. We appreciate the leadership shown by Governor Braun, Speaker Huston, Senator (Ryan) Mishler and members of the Indiana General Assembly in establishing this critical framework and path forward to deliver a premier venue for all of Chicagoland and a destination for Bears fans and visitors from across the globe. We value our partnership and look forward to continuing to build our working relationship together.”
The Hammond location sits approximately 22 miles from Soldier Field, while Wolf Lake is roughly 20 miles away. Transportation access would include the South Shore line and Amtrak service, which runs along the Lake Michigan coast through Indiana into Michigan. By comparison, Arlington Heights sits 25 miles northwest of downtown Chicago with Metra service and proximity to O’Hare Airport and major highways.
Governor Braun stated: “Indiana is open for business, and our pro-growth environment continues to attract major opportunities like this partnership with the Chicago Bears. We’ve identified a promising site near Wolf Lake in Hammond and established a broad framework for negotiating a final deal. If approved, the proposed amendment to Senate Bill 27 puts forward the essential framework to complete this agreement, contingent upon site due diligence proceeding smoothly. The State of Indiana moves at the speed of business, and we’ve demonstrated that through our quick coordination between state agencies, local government, and the legislature to set the stage for a huge win for all Hoosiers. We have built a strong relationship with the Bears organization that will serve as the foundation for a public-private partnership, leading to the construction of a world-class stadium and a win for taxpayers.”
This situation mirrors a recent development with the Kansas City Chiefs, who earlier this year announced plans to leave their longtime Missouri home at Arrowhead Stadium for a new facility in Kansas. That agreement provides the Chiefs with additional revenue opportunities and fulfilled the franchise’s financial objectives for shared funding that Missouri declined to support.
The Bears have played at Soldier Field since 1971, with the exception of the 2002 season when they temporarily relocated to Memorial Stadium at the University of Illinois in Champaign during Soldier Field’s major renovation.
A Toronto-based technology company announced Thursday it has secured $169 million in investment funding while unveiling a new processor designed to run artificial intelligence programs more efficiently and affordably than existing solutions.
The funding announcement from Taalas comes just weeks following Nvidia’s significant $20 billion Christmas Eve agreement to acquire intellectual property rights from competing chip developer Groq, a deal that has renewed investor attention toward emerging companies developing specialized AI inference technology – the systems that allow AI programs like ChatGPT to process and respond to user questions.
The company’s innovative manufacturing method involves embedding specific AI model components directly into silicon wafers, creating processors tailored for particular applications such as smaller versions of Meta’s Llama system. These specialized processors incorporate substantial amounts of high-speed SRAM memory directly on the chip, an approach that mirrors Groq’s design philosophy.
However, according to company officials, the custom engineering for individual AI models provides Taalas with its competitive edge.
“This hard wiring is partly what gives us the speed,” CEO Ljubisa Bajic told Reuters in an interview.
According to Bajic, the manufacturing process involves creating a nearly finished processor with approximately 100 layers, then completing customization work on the final two metal layers. Working with TSMC for production, the company can complete a model-specific chip in roughly two months, he explained.
By comparison, manufacturing an AI processor like Nvidia’s Blackwell requires approximately six months for completion.
Company representatives say they can currently manufacture chips suitable for less complex AI models, with plans to produce processors capable of running advanced systems like GPT 5.2 before year’s end.
Several other startups including Groq, Cerebras – which recently signed a cloud computing partnership with OpenAI in January – and D-Matrix have adopted similar SRAM-focused design strategies for their first-generation processors.
Philadelphia 76ers forward Jabari Walker received a contract upgrade on Thursday when the team converted his two-way deal into a standard NBA contract.
The 23-year-old player joined Philadelphia on a two-way agreement last July following three seasons with the Portland Trail Blazers organization.
This season, Walker has taken the court in 45 of the team’s 54 contests, including six games as a starter. He contributes 3.7 points and 3.1 rebounds while playing an average of 12.1 minutes per contest.
Throughout his four-year NBA career, Walker has participated in 233 games with 30 starts. The former second-round draft selection maintains career averages of 5.7 points and 4.2 rebounds across 15.5 minutes of action per game.
Philadelphia also made another roster move Thursday, bringing in Tyrese Martin on a two-way agreement.
The 26-year-old Martin participated in 37 contests for the Brooklyn Nets this season, starting six times while posting averages of 7.3 points, 2.9 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game.
A major agricultural lender is predicting that American farmers will expand their soybean plantings by approximately six percent in 2026, despite ongoing financial pressures in the farming sector.
The forecast from CoBank comes as agricultural producers nationwide grapple with a challenging economic environment characterized by depressed commodity prices and elevated input expenses. According to the financial institution’s analysis, these difficult conditions are forcing farmers to make tough decisions about their crop selections.
CoBank economist Tanner Ehmke explained the difficult position many producers find themselves in, stating: “Margins are slim, often negative. So what it comes down to obviously for so many producers is what is the least bad option?”
The projected increase in soybean acreage reflects farmers’ search for the most viable crops in a constrained financial landscape, where profitability has become increasingly elusive across many agricultural sectors.
Local nonprofit organizations in Cambridge now have an opportunity to secure funding through the city’s grant program, as officials announce the opening of the application process.
Cambridge city officials are currently reviewing applications from area nonprofits seeking financial support for their community programs and services. The grant initiative aims to provide assistance to organizations that serve the local community.
Nonprofit groups interested in applying for these grants can find more information and submit their applications through the city’s official channels. The program represents Cambridge’s ongoing commitment to supporting community organizations that provide valuable services to residents.
State officials are organizing a job fair next month designed to help young people explore career options within Delaware government while addressing workforce development needs.
The event is scheduled for February 25, 2026, at Paul M. Hodgson Vocational Technical High School in Newark, according to state officials. Delaware’s Human Resources and Labor departments are collaborating to organize the fair.
The initiative aims to bridge the gap between students seeking career direction and state agencies looking to fill positions. Attendees will have the chance to learn about internship programs, apprenticeship openings, and various career tracks available within state government.
Officials say the fair represents part of broader efforts to strengthen Delaware’s workforce pipeline by introducing young job seekers to public sector employment opportunities.
WASHINGTON – President Donald Trump announced Thursday that America will provide financial support to bolster the United Nations and enhance its effectiveness, speaking at the inaugural meeting of his Board of Peace.
While the United States remains the largest financial contributor to the UN’s budget, the Trump administration had previously withheld required payments for regular operations and peacekeeping missions, while also cutting back on voluntary contributions to various UN agencies that operate with independent budgets.
“We’re going to strengthen up the United Nations. We’re going to make sure its facilities are good. They need help …we’re going to help them money-wise, and we’re going to make sure the United Nations is viable,” Trump stated.
The president also expressed optimism about the international organization’s future capabilities, saying “I think the United Nations has great potential, really great potential. It has not lived up to (that) potential.”
MILAN (AP) — When Sidney Crosby netted the golden goal that delivered Olympic gold to Canada on home soil in Vancouver 2010, he cemented his place in hockey lore. Since the 2014 Sochi Games, he has worn the captain’s armband every time he’s donned the maple leaf.
The three-time Stanley Cup champion and two-time Olympic gold medalist was long considered the planet’s premier hockey talent. However, that crown has now shifted to Connor McDavid, who currently skates alongside Crosby at the Milan Olympics. While Crosby expressed willingness to pass the captaincy to McDavid, Hockey Canada opted to retain their veteran leader for the NHL’s Olympic comeback.
“He moves between management and coaches and players with great ease,” Canada general manager Doug Armstrong said. “He’s as good a leader as I’ve been around and I’ve seen.”
The inevitable passing of the torch from jersey number 87 to 97 may happen sooner than anticipated due to Crosby’s Olympic injury. Should Crosby be sidelined for Friday’s semifinal matchup, Olympic regulations mandate someone must wear the captain’s “C” — and that responsibility will likely fall to McDavid, Canada’s heir apparent.
“Those two, it’s Sid and then Connor who’s kind of filling in his shoes and kind of taking on that role,” said Macklin Celebrini, Canada’s youngest player at 19. “They’re different in the way that they carry themselves, but both of them are awesome people and awesome teammates.”
These Milan Games mark the third Olympic appearance for the 38-year-old Crosby. For the 29-year-old McDavid, it represents his debut on this stage — a consequence of the twelve-year NHL Olympic absence that occurred during his prime years.
McDavid has seized this long-awaited chance, topping the tournament scoring charts with 11 points and positioning himself as a potential MVP candidate should Canada capture gold as they did under Crosby and Drew Doughty’s leadership in 2010 and 2014.
“He’s doing everything,” Crosby said. “Whether it’s with the puck without the puck, (being) physical, he’s leading by example in every possible way. He’s poised, and guys have taken some runs out of him. He just continues to play. I think he’s (got) a lot of focus that way. He’s been leading the way.”
Drew Doughty, Canada’s second-eldest player at 36, has watched McDavid eliminate his Los Angeles Kings from the playoffs in each of the last four seasons while playing for Edmonton. This gave him a close-up view of McDavid’s excellence during hockey’s most intense moments.
Now he’s witnessing it again, but this time as a teammate rather than an opponent.
“I don’t know if he’s playing better or what, but it’s obviously on a bigger stage,” Doughty said. “For him to be able to handle that pressure and play the way he’s playing, it’s pretty special.”
Crosby, pursuing his third Olympic championship, had accumulated six points across three contests before departing the fourth game with what appeared to be a right knee problem. Despite leaving the quarterfinal against Czechia and being unable to return, he rallied the team during the second intermission, spurring Canada’s comeback from a late deficit to secure an overtime victory.
“We didn’t want this to be Sid’s last game at this Olympics, so it was big motivator for the guys coming out,” coach Jon Cooper said, boiling down Crosby’s message to, “Go get it, boys.”
“There was a lot more than that. But he’s a true leader. And they don’t want this to be the end of the tournament for him.”
Whether Crosby will suit up for Friday’s semifinal against Finland remains unclear. Cooper indicated Crosby hasn’t been eliminated from consideration for that contest or the remainder of the Olympics.
“If he can play, he’s definitely going to,” Cooper said after practice Thursday.
While Celebrini preferred not to imagine competing without Crosby, Canada’s coaching staff must prepare for that possibility. McDavid captains Edmonton and has exhibited leadership qualities throughout these Olympic Games.
“He’s a great leader for us,” goaltender Jordan Binnington said. “He wants the puck. He wants to make a difference. He’s excited to play. He brings great energy, and he’s had a lot of big goals, contributed to a lot of big goals for us.”
Cooper has observed Canada’s leadership dynamics evolve since the 4 Nations Face-Off a year earlier, when players deferred to Crosby, Doughty and Brad Marchand — veteran voices willing to speak up. That dynamic has transformed, with McDavid assuming greater leadership responsibilities this tournament.
“He’s much more — not that he wasn’t comfortable — but I think there was a lot of uncertainty especially because we hadn’t seen best on best and this group hadn’t been together for so long,” Cooper said. “In this tournament, he’s been fabulous.”
McDavid’s leadership style differs from Crosby’s more vocal approach, and despite his individual achievements, he has yet to claim a Stanley Cup. Throughout his career, he has absorbed valuable lessons from Crosby about effective leadership.
“Everybody here watches him and is trying to learn off him,” McDavid said. “Sid is just himself, and it doesn’t need to be anything more or less. I think everybody’s different in their own way.”
Doughty characterized Crosby as “the guy that showed all the young guys, young players growing up, what it means to be Canadian, what it means to be a Canadian hockey player.” He believes McDavid is prepared to carry that responsibility forward.
“I can’t say enough good things about him,” Doughty said. “Great guy off the ice, fun to hang around, and then when it’s game time, he’s dialed in and ready to go. And he puts that jersey on and he’s the best player on the ice every night. It’s crazy.”
Charlotte Hornets star LaMelo Ball will suit up for Thursday evening’s matchup against the Houston Rockets, just one day following his involvement in a two-vehicle accident in Charlotte, North Carolina. The point guard’s name does not appear on the team’s official injury report.
The collision comes as the Hornets continue their impressive streak, capturing 10 victories in their past 11 contests, with Ball serving as a key contributor to the team’s recent hot streak.
Television station WSOC-TV captured footage showing Ball navigating through an intersection when his specially designed camouflage Hummer struck another vehicle on Wednesday. Additional video revealed Ball, dressed in a turquoise Hornets sweatshirt, exiting his damaged vehicle and departing in a different car while law enforcement officers remained at the scene.
Authorities have yet to release an official incident report regarding the collision.
Details about the occupant of the second vehicle remain unavailable, though footage captured the other driver calmly stepping out of their car and approaching Ball’s truck following the impact.
The video clearly showed Ball’s truck had lost its front left wheel in the accident.
This incident adds Ball to a growing list of Charlotte-area professional athletes who have experienced vehicle accidents in the city.
In 2014, former Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton suffered a fractured spine when his pickup truck overturned near Bank of America Stadium, occurring less than one mile from Ball’s Wednesday crash site.
More recently in 2024, Panthers reserve quarterback Andy Dalton sustained a thumb injury during a two-vehicle collision within Charlotte city limits.
Tragically, former Hornets player Bobby Phills lost his life in a fatal car accident at age 30 on January 12, 2000, following a team practice session.
The foundation for restoring America’s cattle population lies in superior genetics from high-quality breeding bulls, according to agricultural specialists. Travis Meteer, a beef expert with the University of Illinois Extension, emphasizes that rebuilding the nation’s herd will depend heavily on utilizing genetics from premium breeding stock.
“The cycle in cattle, it takes a little while to turn the ship,” Meteer explained, highlighting the time-intensive nature of cattle production. The specialist stressed that strategic investment in top-tier genetics will be crucial for the industry’s recovery efforts.
The emphasis on genetic quality reflects the cattle industry’s focus on long-term herd improvement rather than quick fixes, as producers work to address current supply challenges through careful breeding decisions.
Drivers traveling on eastbound Federal School Lane should expect delays this afternoon due to ongoing construction work that has forced the closure of the right lane.
According to the Delaware Department of Transportation, the right lane remains blocked between South DuPont Highway (Route 1) and River Road (Route 9) as crews continue their work.
The lane restriction is expected to be lifted by 4 PM today, though motorists are advised to plan for extra travel time and use alternate routes when possible.
DelDOT continues to monitor the situation and will provide updates as construction progresses.
Payment processing giant Visa has committed to a four-year extension of its Formula 1 partnership with Red Bull Racing, taking the deal through 2030 and significantly expanding its presence in the sport.
The financial services company first entered Formula 1 in 2024, marking its initial major global sports sponsorship in a decade and a half. Despite facing criticism over the lengthy team name “Visa Cash App Racing Bulls,” the company has pushed forward with confidence.
“When people embrace what you’re doing, people will find a way to talk about your name in positive light,” Frank Cooper, chief marketing officer of VISA, told The Associated Press. “Names become affectionate names once people find some kind of close connection to the company, the drivers, the team, and so people have gotten comfortable with it.”
Cooper acknowledged the ongoing debate about the team’s name, noting that fans use various shortened versions including VCARB, Racing Bulls, and Visa Cash App.
“I don’t know anyone has settled on ‘This is exactly what we’re going to call it every single time’ because sometimes people will say the car, sometimes they’ll say Racing Bulls, it’s a little bit all over the place. But I’m comfortable with that because: one, they’re talking about it, and two, the initial response of ‘How do I even say this? What does it mean?’ That’s all gone,” he said.
The renewed agreement brings expanded benefits including additional branding opportunities, improved hospitality packages, and immersive experiences across both Red Bull Racing and its sister team.
“In a short space of time, Oracle Red Bull Racing and Visa have fostered a partnership built on collaborative effort and mutual success,” said Paul Gandolfi, chief commercial officer of Red Bull Racing. “With Red Bull, we sit at the epicenter of sport, entertainment and lifestyle, meaning we are strategically positioned to bring globally recognized industry leaders like Visa, into the sport as we embark on a new era of Formula 1.”
Under the extended deal, Visa maintains its title sponsorship of Red Bull’s secondary team, which fields cars for drivers Liam Lawson and newcomer Arvid Lindblad. The company also continues supporting the Racing Bulls’ women’s Formula 1 Academy initiative.
The agreement includes increased visibility on the primary Red Bull vehicles driven by four-time world champion Max Verstappen and Isack Hadjar, who earned a promotion from the sister team last season. Visa’s branding will appear on the front wing of the new RB22 car starting in 2026.
The deal also grants Visa exclusive sponsorship rights within the retail banking sector, along with enhanced partnership benefits.
Cooper emphasized that the extended contract provides greater access to teams, drivers, and exclusive areas within the racing circuit.
“We looked at it from the fan perspective of what do the fans want? What does a client want? Those are the things they want. They want to be close to the access,” said Cooper. “They want to feel like they’re part of it. The way we think about it is, being a traditional sponsor means just simply being adjacent to the property that you paid some money for. You get a logo. You’re adjacent to it, you hope to get a halo effect from that adjacency.”
“We decided that’s fine for those who want to do it that way, but we think we can do more. Our approach is to try to add value to the fan experience and add value to the driver,” he added.
Cooper credited the success of Netflix’s “Drive To Survive” documentary series for showing him that racing fans crave behind-the-scenes content. This insight led to one of Visa’s most successful marketing campaigns last year.
The #TakeYourDriverToWorkDay initiative featured drivers Hadjar and Lawson swapping their race cars for office desks, participating in typical corporate orientation activities at Visa’s London headquarters. The workplace comedy-style content gained significant traction on social media platforms.
Looking ahead, Cooper anticipates more creative campaigns as Visa manages sponsorships across multiple major sporting events this year, including the Super Bowl, Olympics, World Cup, and Formula 1. The company will also participate in Red Bull’s Showrun Tour, beginning this Saturday with a public demonstration that will convert San Francisco’s Marina Boulevard into a Formula 1-style exhibition track.
Visa plans to incorporate musical performances into its Formula 1 marketing strategy this summer, building on Red Bull’s previous success hosting artists like Bad Bunny at the Miami Grand Prix in 2022.
“One thing that has been true for decades is that athletes want to be around musicians and musicians want to be close to athletes,” Cooper said. “The opportunity to cross-pollinate across various cultural pillars and create new experiences is there for us.”
CARACAS, Venezuela (AP) — Venezuelan lawmakers are scheduled to continue heated discussions Thursday on legislation that would determine who among hundreds of individuals imprisoned on political grounds could receive pardons and freedom.
The proposed legislation could provide relief to opposition figures, activists, journalists, human rights advocates and numerous others who have been prosecuted by the governing party throughout the last 27 years. Legislative discussions halted last week when representatives couldn’t reach consensus on several points, particularly whether individuals who fled Venezuela to escape arrest could receive pardons, revealing opposition from some government supporters to granting clemency to opposition figures.
Acting President Delcy Rodríguez introduced the legislation following the dramatic January 3 military operation in which U.S. forces apprehended former President Nicolás Maduro in Caracas and transported him to New York to face narcotics trafficking allegations.
The amnesty discussions represent another dramatic shift in Venezuelan policy, as the government has rapidly implemented directives from President Donald Trump’s administration, including recent changes to the nation’s petroleum sector regulations.
While Venezuelan officials have consistently rejected claims of holding political detainees, the proposed legislation essentially confirms their existence.
According to last week’s presentation, the measure aims to provide individuals with “a general and full amnesty for crimes or offenses committed” during designated timeframes beginning in 1999 that featured politically-motivated conflicts in Venezuela, including “acts of politically motivated violence” surrounding the 2024 presidential contest. The election’s aftermath sparked demonstrations and led to over 2,000 arrests, including minors.
Representatives approved the bill’s general framework but suspended discussions due to disputes over coverage, particularly regarding individuals the government has charged with various crimes but who avoided prosecution by remaining hidden within Venezuela or seeking refuge overseas. Government party legislators, including Maduro’s son, argued during last week’s sessions that such individuals must first face the judicial system to qualify for amnesty, since Venezuelan law prohibits trials conducted without the defendant present.
“When one sins, I don’t absolve myself at home; I must go to church, I will go to confession (and say), ‘Father, I confess that I have sinned,” stated Nicolás Maduro Guerra, drawing parallels between religious confession and Venezuela’s legal system. “Therefore, the ritual of saying, ‘I came to the rule of law, and I acknowledge that we are under the law, under strong institutions that have endured and upheld the republic’ … is important.”
His remarks, however, disregard that many accused individuals, including current prisoners, frequently encounter fabricated charges, are refused legal representation and cannot access evidence presented against them. The comments also ignore that cases are handled by compliant judges loyal to the ruling party.
While general amnesty has remained a primary goal of Venezuela’s opposition and human rights organizations, they have approached the proposal with measured hope while expressing multiple concerns regarding qualification criteria and execution.
Foro Penal, a Venezuelan prisoners’ rights organization, calculates that more than 600 individuals remain detained for political reasons.
Following Maduro’s arrest, Rodríguez’s administration announced plans to release a substantial number of prisoners. However, family members and human rights monitors have criticized the sluggish release process. Foro Penal has documented 448 releases.
Relatives awaiting their loved ones’ freedom have maintained vigils outside detention centers for days. Several began hunger strikes on Saturday.
MADISON, Wis. — Wisconsin legislators are moving forward Thursday with plans to approve extended Medicaid benefits for new mothers, a development that will isolate Arkansas as the nation’s lone holdout on postpartum healthcare coverage expansion.
For years, Wisconsin Democrats and many Republicans have advocated for lengthening Medicaid benefits for mothers after delivery, but faced consistent opposition from influential GOP Assembly Speaker Robin Vos. While Vos previously resisted what he viewed as welfare program growth, he changed course late Wednesday evening.
Thursday’s Assembly agenda includes voting on the maternal Medicaid extension alongside another bipartisan proposal mandating insurance coverage for enhanced breast cancer screenings for women with dense breast tissue.
The state Senate has already given overwhelming approval to both proposals, sending them to Democratic Governor Tony Evers, who is anticipated to sign the legislation next week.
Following Wisconsin’s expected action, Arkansas will stand alone without expanded postpartum Medicaid benefits.
Arkansas, which records among America’s highest rates of maternal deaths, did enact substantial maternal healthcare reforms last year. The state now provides temporary Medicaid access for pregnant women during eligibility review periods and covers doula care plus remote vital sign monitoring.
However, the Arkansas legislation stopped short of extending postpartum Medicaid duration, disappointing Democrats and some GOP members.
Republican Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders advocated for the maternal health package while rejecting the postpartum extension, maintaining that alternative coverage exists.
In Wisconsin, approval of the Medicaid expansion and breast screening measures resolves a legislative standoff occurring during intense final negotiations of the two-year session. Republicans and Evers continue discussing potential agreements on tax reductions, education funding, and additional priorities, utilizing the state’s projected $2.5 billion budget surplus.
Democratic Assembly Minority Leader Greta Neubauer spearheaded efforts to advance both the Medicaid and breast screening legislation. Announcing her pregnancy Wednesday while revealing her mother’s breast cancer diagnosis, Neubauer declared Democrats would “stop at nothing to get a vote on these bills.” She described the anticipated passage as “an incredible win for women and the people of Wisconsin.”
Republican legislators, including Senate Majority Leader Devin LeMahieu, also shared personal accounts of breast cancer’s impact on family members while supporting the screening legislation.
The Medicaid expansion will enable low-income mothers earning above poverty thresholds to maintain state Medicaid enrollment for twelve months following delivery, replacing the current two-month limitation.
Despite consensus on these issues, numerous other prominent proposals appear destined to expire with the session’s end. Republicans haven’t reached agreement on funding to maintain WisconsinEye, the state’s nonprofit equivalent to C-SPAN.
Wisconsin’s nearly four-decade-old land conservation initiative also faces potential termination as lawmakers remain deadlocked on continued funding beyond June 30.
For years, Republicans have criticized the conservation program as overly costly and removing excessive acreage from property tax collections, damaging local governments. Proposals to preserve the program with significantly reduced funding have stalled.
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. — Space agency officials attempted a second fueling trial of their massive lunar rocket on Thursday following hydrogen leaks that disrupted the original practice run and pushed back the first crewed moon mission in over 50 years.
Launch crews started the process of loading more than 700,000 gallons of extremely cold propellant into the towering rocket positioned on its launch platform for the second time this month.
This represents the most crucial and difficult phase of the two-day practice countdown sequence. The results will establish whether a March departure is feasible for the Artemis II lunar mission carrying four crew members.
Two weeks earlier during the practice session, hazardous quantities of frigid liquid hydrogen leaked from connection points linking the launch pad to the 322-foot Space Launch System rocket. Technical teams installed new seals and replaced a blocked filter, hoping these repairs would allow successful completion of the repeated test at Kennedy Space Center.
The space agency will not announce a departure date for the Artemis II mission until this fueling demonstration succeeds. Similar to the previous attempt, the four-person crew consisting of three Americans and one Canadian observed the test remotely.
The earliest possible launch window opens March 6. These astronauts would become the first humans to journey to the moon since Apollo 17 in 1972, completing a 10-day round trip without landing or entering lunar orbit.
The space agency has struggled with hydrogen fuel leakage issues dating back to the space shuttle program, which supplied many of the SLS rocket engines. The initial Artemis test mission without crew members was delayed for months due to hydrogen leaks before successfully launching in November 2022.
Extended gaps between launches make these problems worse, according to NASA’s new administrator Jared Isaacman, a technology entrepreneur who funded his own orbital flights with SpaceX.
Only two months after taking the position, Isaacman has already committed to redesigning the fuel connection systems between the rocket and launch pad prior to the subsequent Artemis III mission. That future launch, planned for several years from now, aims to place two astronauts on the lunar surface near the moon’s south pole.
“We will not launch unless we are ready and the safety of our astronauts will remain the highest priority,” he stated last week on X.
The University of Delaware Blue Hens softball squad is making final preparations for their participation in the upcoming Mizuno Classic tournament.
The team will take their talents to compete against other collegiate programs in this anticipated event, adding another chapter to their current season campaign.
Grace Hausamann and her teammates are expected to represent the Blue Hens as they face off against competition at the classic.
This tournament appearance marks another opportunity for the Delaware program to showcase their skills on a larger stage while continuing to build momentum for the remainder of their season.
Three commanders from Sudan’s paramilitary Rapid Support Forces now face U.S. sanctions following their participation in an 18-month assault on the city of al-Fashir, federal officials announced Thursday.
The Treasury Department leveled serious accusations against the RSF, claiming the group conducted what officials described as a brutal campaign involving ethnic-based murders, torture, forced starvation, and sexual assault during their prolonged attack and eventual takeover of al-Fashir.
The city of al-Fashir in Sudan’s Darfur region succumbed to RSF control in October 2025 following the extended siege that resulted in mass casualties.
According to Treasury officials, after securing the city in October, RSF militants intensified their systematic campaign of widespread murders, arbitrary detentions, and sexual assault, with no civilians spared from harm. Federal authorities also allege the organization launched a deliberate effort to conceal evidence of mass murders by burying, incinerating, and disposing of tens of thousands of corpses.
An estimated 100,000 residents evacuated al-Fashir starting in late October once the paramilitary organization assumed control following the 18-month blockade that created famine conditions in the city.
Those who escaped described ethnically-targeted mass executions and widespread imprisonment both during and following the takeover. Numerous individuals remain missing throughout al-Fashir and neighboring regions.
“The United States calls on the Rapid Support Forces to commit to a humanitarian ceasefire immediately. We will not tolerate this ongoing campaign of terror and senseless killing in Sudan,” Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said in the statement.
The Treasury Department’s Thursday sanctions include an RSF brigadier general who officials say recorded himself executing defenseless civilians, along with a major general and an RSF field commander.
Following a significant legal victory, religious leaders have returned to an immigration detention center near Chicago for the first time since 2020, bringing spiritual comfort to those held inside the facility.
Two Catholic priests and a nun, accompanied by law enforcement, walked through security barriers and barbed wire fencing to enter the Broadview detention center on Ash Wednesday, marking the end of a months-long legal fight for access.
Father Paul Keller, one of the priests who entered the facility, described witnessing emotional reactions from detainees who received communion and ashes during the religious observance. With his hands darkened from applying ceremonial ashes, Keller characterized the experience as both meaningful and somber following the extended court proceedings.
Religious officials had been barred from the Broadview center, located west of Chicago, since the COVID-19 pandemic started in 2020, according to the Coalition for Spiritual and Public Leadership.
“We’re dealing with what should be a very non-controversial issue, which is praying with people who are detained and providing them some comfort,” Keller told Reuters. “It’s unfortunate that it’s happening because of a lawsuit.”
The facility became a focal point during the previous administration’s enforcement operation known as “Midway Blitz” last autumn, when federal agents conducted widespread arrests across Chicago and surrounding areas. Officials targeted individuals they claimed posed risks to public safety, though the operations drew criticism for their tactics.
According to court documents, agents used tear gas in residential areas, detained protesters, deployed stun guns during arrests, aimed weapons at civilians, and shot two individuals, one fatally. The Department of Homeland Security reported detaining over 4,200 people during these operations.
Many detainees were housed at the Broadview center under crowded conditions, with some sleeping on floors near malfunctioning restroom facilities, according to legal filings.
The area around the detention center previously saw regular demonstrations, with protesters gathering as immigration officials deployed pepper balls and tear gas. On Wednesday, the atmosphere was markedly different, filled instead with prayers and religious songs.
Ash Wednesday represents the start of the Lenten season in the Catholic calendar, when believers receive ash crosses on their foreheads as a sign of penance.
Catholic leadership, including those with Chicago-area roots like Pope Leo, have become vocal advocates for immigrant rights during recent federal enforcement efforts. Chicago Archbishop Blaise Cupich delivered a powerful sermon at a local church, emphasizing the dignity of all immigrants.
“God does not need papers to know where you are or who you are,” Cupich said. “When you cry in secret, he sees you. When you work hard for your children while no one is watching, he sees you. He sees you when you sacrifice your own comfort to send money back home.”
Following the clergy’s visit to the detention facility, thousands gathered for a public Mass, carrying prayer beads, supportive signs, and candles.
The service included traditional Catholic elements like scripture readings, congregational singing, and incense, while also incorporating special prayers for immigrant families and those who have lost loved ones to immigration enforcement actions. The service included remembrances for Silverio Villegas Rodriguez, Renee Good, and Alex Pretti, three individuals killed during recent federal operations.
“It’s letting immigrants and people in Broadview know that they’re not alone and that we haven’t forgotten about them,” said Kamila Chavez, a Loyola University Chicago student who attended the service.
The legal victory represents progress for community members who have experienced trauma from immigration enforcement, according to Reverend David Black, a Presbyterian minister who was injured by federal agents at the facility in October. Black was pepper-sprayed and struck in the head with a pepper ball during previous protests.
On February 13, a federal judge determined that denying religious leaders access to the facility violated their constitutional right to practice their faith.
“Ash Wednesday is a day that we remember that we are dust and that we will return to dust,” said Rev. Black. “It’s a day that Christians remember that the empires of this world rise out of ashes and fall back into ashes.”
Credit card giant Visa announced Thursday its plans to acquire two payment processing companies, Prisma and Newpay, from private equity firm Advent International in a move designed to strengthen its operations in Argentina.
The acquisition is intended to accelerate the implementation of advanced payment technologies including tokenization, biometric authentication, and sophisticated risk management tools for both consumers and businesses throughout Argentina.
“We see significant opportunities to expand digital payments adoption and modernize financial services, capabilities and infrastructure across the country,” said Gabriela Renaudo, group country manager, Visa Argentina and Southern Cone.
Financial details of the acquisition were not revealed. The transaction is anticipated to be completed during the first quarter of 2026.
A major dessert manufacturing company could soon hit the stock market or change hands in a massive deal worth over $3 billion, according to industry insiders.
Investment firm Bain Capital is weighing its options for Dessert Holdings, which produces cakes, pies and cookies for grocery stores and restaurants throughout North America. Three sources with knowledge of the situation say the company is exploring both a public stock offering and a potential sale.
To handle the process, Bain Capital has brought on major investment banks Goldman Sachs and Bank of America to explore both possibilities simultaneously, the sources revealed. They spoke on condition of anonymity due to the private nature of the discussions.
When contacted for comment, representatives from Bain Capital, Dessert Holdings, Goldman Sachs and Bank of America all declined to provide statements.
The dessert company has grown significantly since Bain Capital purchased it in 2021. At that time, the business operated just three brands after being founded in St. Paul, Minnesota by private equity firm Gryphon Investors in 2016.
Today, Dessert Holdings has expanded to encompass seven different dessert brands and generates approximately $1 billion in yearly revenue. The company also produces more than $200 million in annual earnings before accounting for interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, according to the sources.
The portfolio of brands under Dessert Holdings includes Steven Charles, The Original Cakerie, Lawler’s Desserts, Atlanta Cheesecake Company, Dianne’s Fine Desserts, Kenny’s Great Pies and Willamette Valley Pie Company.
An American Olympic athlete faced an unusual challenge during competition in Italy this week when maintenance equipment got in his way at the worst possible moment.
Ben Loomis, competing for Team USA in Nordic combined, was struck by a leaf blower during Thursday’s Olympic team sprint event in Predazzo, Italy. The collision occurred as Loomis pushed off from the starting position for his ski jump when an official didn’t move the equipment quickly enough.
Officials have been using the leaf blowers throughout the ski jumping events to remove loose snow from the track, positioning workers along the course to operate the machines between each athlete’s attempt.
The equipment made contact with Loomis’s shoulder, leaving marks on his competition outfit but causing no physical injury. The bizarre incident didn’t throw off the American athlete, who went on to place seventh in the event with his partner Niklas Malacinski and handled the situation with good humor.
“Unfortunately one of them was a little bit too late pulling theirs (leafblower) out of the way, but they’re human and things can happen,” he told Reuters.
Olympic officials gave Loomis the option to repeat his jump following the collision, but he chose not to take the do-over. His decision was influenced partly by deteriorating snow conditions that might have made the track slower for a second attempt.
“I was still pretty happy with the jump and had the opportunity to take a second jump, but decided that conditions were probably getting worse and it kind of mentally was my competition jump, so I was happy with it,” he said.
French automotive manufacturer Renault delivered disappointing financial results Thursday, reporting operating profits fell 15% while warning shareholders to expect further margin compression through 2026.
The automaker’s stock tumbled nearly 6% by mid-morning as investors reacted to the sobering outlook from the company now under the leadership of CEO Francois Provost, who took the helm last summer.
Renault had previously signaled weakening profitability in July when market conditions soured during the second quarter, particularly impacting the European commercial van sector where the French brand holds a dominant position.
Although the company anticipates its van division will recover by 2026, intense competition in the passenger vehicle segment is expected to persist as additional Chinese manufacturers enter European markets and larger competitor Stellantis implements aggressive pricing tactics to reclaim market position.
“Last year, several competitors pushed a lot on price. This is not our strategy,” Provost explained during an analyst conference call, emphasizing that Renault was “ready to fight” Chinese competition through cost reductions and accelerated product launches including the upcoming Clio 6 and redesigned Twingo models.
“I don’t underestimate the strong Chinese push … but I think that with our strategy, our recipe, we will be capable to sustain growth in Europe in the coming years,” the CEO added.
The French manufacturer recorded operating profits of 3.6 billion euros ($4.24 billion) for 2025, meeting analyst expectations compiled by the company. However, pricing pressures alone accounted for over 700 million euros of the profit decline.
Renault’s group operating margin dropped to 6.3% last year from a record 7.6% the previous year, with management projecting approximately 5.5% for 2026 and targeting between 5% and 7% over the medium term.
International market expansion helped boost Renault’s vehicle sales by 3.2% in 2025 to 2.34 million units, driving revenues up 3% to 57.9 billion euros compared to the prior year.
The company is leveraging its Duster SUV to expand its Indian operations while also growing its South American presence, seeking to achieve greater economies of scale and reduce European market dependence.
However, overseas profitability also declined, prompting Renault to continue pursuing variable cost reductions of approximately 400 euros per vehicle, according to Chief Financial Officer Duncan Minto, who noted the company achieved this target in 2025.
Renault reported a full-year net loss of 10.9 billion euros on a group basis, marking its first loss in five years, primarily attributed to a 9.3 billion euro writedown in July related to its stake in struggling partner Nissan.
Despite the challenging results, the company maintained its dividend at 2.20 euros, unchanged from 2024.
Renault shares declined 25% throughout 2025 and have dropped approximately 8% year-to-date, though performing better than rival Stellantis, which has fallen 30%.
BORMIO, Italy – Spanish athlete Oriol Cardona Coll ended his country’s 54-year Winter Olympic gold medal drought Thursday by capturing first place in the men’s ski mountaineering sprint competition, a brand-new event making its Olympic debut.
Switzerland’s Marianne Fatton also etched her name in Olympic history just minutes before, defeating heavily favored French competitor Emily Harrop to become the first-ever Olympic champion in the multi-faceted sport at the Milano-Cortina Games in Bormio.
Despite battling through qualifying rounds and semifinals in harsh snowstorm conditions, Cardona Coll controlled the six-athlete final from start to finish. He executed flawless transitions throughout the challenging uphill and downhill course to defeat Russian competitor Nikita Filippov, while France’s Thibault Anselmet earned the bronze medal.
The victory marked Spain’s first Winter Olympic gold since Alpine skier Francisco Fernandez Ochoa’s triumph at the 1972 Sapporo Games. Spain had not earned any medals at these Milano-Cortina Olympics prior to Thursday’s competition.
Filippov competed without national representation, as the International Olympic Committee prohibited Russian and Belarusian athletes from displaying their flags or hearing their anthems following Russia’s February 2022 invasion of Ukraine.
Harrop entered the competition as the overwhelming gold medal favorite, having claimed four SkiMo overall championships. However, she lost crucial time during the staircase portion of the course and couldn’t recover to catch the surging Fatton, settling for silver instead.
Spain’s Ana Alonso Rodriguez captured bronze in the women’s event, giving the country its first medal of these Games before Cardona Coll improved on that achievement with his commanding gold medal performance.
The world’s top ski mountaineering athletes waited until near the Games’ conclusion to showcase their skills, but they delivered an captivating spectacle for spectators who braved the severe weather conditions.
While traditional ski touring from the 1800s provided the sport’s foundation, the Olympic sprint format delivers an adrenaline-fueled competition with qualifying heats lasting just over three minutes.
Competitors race head-to-head, beginning with an uphill ski climb on a 60-meter slope using grip-enhancing skins, followed by navigating a 10-meter staircase on foot while carrying skis on their backs.
Athletes then complete a brief flat skiing segment before finishing with a slalom descent back to the base of the Stelvio course.
The transition phases – removing and reattaching skis and skins – proved critical for determining winners, and likely cost Harrop the gold medal she sought.
Known as the “Queen of Sprint,” the former Alpine skiing competitor controlled the initial climb and powered up the staircase. However, she spent too much time reattaching her skis, allowing world champion Fatton to take the lead and maintain it through the finish.
Cardona Coll maintained his advantage throughout nearly the entire race, and once he removed his ski skins for the final downhill section, he could begin celebrating before crossing the finish line.
Drivers heading to Rehoboth Beach should prepare for traffic changes this weekend as Special Olympics Delaware hosts its yearly Polar Bear Plunge Weekend from Friday, February 27 through Sunday, March 1.
City officials have announced several traffic restrictions that will affect downtown Rehoboth Beach throughout the charitable event weekend.
Beginning Friday, February 27, the bandstand horseshoe area will be off-limits to vehicle traffic and will remain closed until the plunge activities wrap up Sunday afternoon.
Saturday, February 28 will feature the 5K Run to the Plunge event, scheduled to begin at 10 a.m. along the Boardwalk.
The most extensive restrictions will take effect on Sunday, March 1, the main plunge day. Motorists will not be able to park along the initial block of Rehoboth Avenue, spanning from 1st Street down to the Boardwalk. Additional parking limitations will be enforced near boardwalk entrances on various streets.
Emergency and rescue vehicles will have designated parking areas on the first blocks of both Wilmington and Baltimore Avenue. These reserved spaces will be clearly identified with traffic cones and “no parking” signs to ensure emergency access remains clear.
All traffic and parking restrictions will stay in place until the Polar Bear Plunge activities conclude on Sunday.
Following a month-long postponement due to inclement weather, Special Olympics Delaware’s beloved annual Polar Plunge Weekend is set to take place next weekend in Rehoboth Beach, drawing thousands of brave participants to the coastal city.
The beloved community event requires extensive coordination from multiple law enforcement agencies, with Rehoboth Beach Police taking the lead role. According to Captain Jamie Riddle, the department handles extensive safety planning for the weekend festivities. “The Rehoboth Beach Police Department conducts comprehensive operational planning for various public safety components of the Polar Bear Plunge weekend. This includes coordinating logistics, developing staffing plans, and organizing assignments for both RBPD personnel and assisting officers from agencies across the State of Delaware,” Riddle explained.
Prior to the weekend events, police distribute detailed operational briefings to all participating officers to ensure seamless coordination. The department also positions essential equipment throughout the area, including traffic barriers, warning cones, directional signs, and establishes emergency vehicle routes.
During the plunge weekend, Rehoboth Beach Police maintain high visibility patrols across all event locations while continuing to respond to regular emergency calls throughout the city. Officers collaborate with partner agencies to manage crowds, direct traffic, ensure pedestrian safety, and provide immediate emergency response when needed.
Captain Riddle emphasizes the collaborative nature of the event, noting the extensive support from law enforcement partners throughout Delaware. Assisting agencies include Bethany Beach Police Department, Camden Police Department, Capitol Police, Clayton Police Department, DelDOT, Delmar Police Department, Delaware Alcohol & Tobacco Enforcement, Delaware Office of the State Fire Marshal, Delaware State Police, Dewey Beach Police Department, Laurel Police Department, Middletown Police Department, Newark Police Department, Rehoboth Beach Patrol, Rehoboth Beach Volunteer Fire Department, Smyrna Police Department, Sussex County EMS, and University of Delaware Police Department.
The fundraising event supports more than 4,000 Special Olympics Delaware athletes statewide. Since its inception in Rehoboth Beach in 1998, the plunge has grown into a weekend-long celebration attracting thousands of in-person and virtual participants while generating over one million dollars annually for the organization.
Residents and visitors should expect city-wide street closures and parking restrictions during the event weekend.
A new federal housing policy proposal threatens to displace nearly 80,000 people across the United States, with many of those affected being children who are American citizens.
The Department of Housing and Urban Development is considering a regulation that would prohibit families containing any undocumented immigrants from residing in federally subsidized housing units. Currently, while undocumented immigrants cannot receive housing assistance directly, they are permitted to live with family members who qualify for and receive such aid.
This potential policy change could force families to make difficult choices between staying together and maintaining stable housing. The impact would be felt most severely by mixed-status families where some members have legal status while others do not.
Housing advocates warn that the rule could lead to widespread displacement and homelessness among vulnerable populations, particularly affecting children who are U.S. citizens but live with undocumented family members.
Stock prices for online used car dealer Carvana dropped approximately 8% Thursday following disappointing fourth-quarter earnings results that showed rising vehicle repair expenses cutting into company profits.
The decline came after Carvana reported that costs for preparing used vehicles for sale exceeded expectations during the final quarter of 2024. The company explained that expenses for inspecting, fixing and cleaning cars at multiple facilities throughout their network were higher than anticipated.
Economic pressures from ongoing inflation and tariff-imposed price increases on new vehicles have pushed American car buyers toward alternative purchasing strategies. Many consumers are postponing new car purchases, choosing less expensive vehicle models, or turning to the used car market instead.
Although used vehicle sales have remained steady, automotive retailers are facing financial challenges from tariffs and inflation that have increased both reconditioning expenses and vehicle depreciation rates.
Following Wednesday’s after-hours earnings announcement, at least four financial firms including J.P. Morgan and RBC Capital Markets reduced their stock price predictions for Carvana.
The company stated that expenses were impacted by larger-than-projected costs associated with vehicle preparation activities across several production facilities during the quarter. Additionally, increased retail depreciation rates created additional financial pressure on a per-vehicle basis.
These disappointing financial results arrive just months after the retailer, recognized for its distinctive multi-story car vending machines, concluded 2024 by earning inclusion in Wall Street’s prestigious S&P 500 index, having previously dismissed criticism from short-selling investors.
Stephens financial analyst Jeff Lick described the stock decline as a possible buying opportunity for investors, noting that even minor disappointments can cause significant price swings in highly-valued companies like Carvana.
The company’s shares have historically attracted individual investors, driving multiple social media-fueled trading surges in recent years that have consistently caught hedge funds with negative positions off guard.
On Wednesday, Carvana dismissed new accusations from short-selling firm Gotham City Research claiming the company inflated its 2023-2024 earnings by over $1 billion.
Short-selling positions in Carvana stock remain high but have decreased slightly since January began, with approximately 14.84 million shares sold short, accounting for roughly 10.7% of the company’s available trading shares as of February 17, according to Ortex data analytics.
Destructive blazes are ravaging communities throughout the Central Plains, with Kansas agricultural officials reporting they cannot yet determine the complete extent of the devastation. The state’s Agriculture Secretary, Mike Beam, indicated that the fire outbreak originated in Oklahoma on Tuesday, fueled by dangerous conditions including dry air and powerful wind gusts.
According to Beam, “Very few, if any, of these fires that have sprung up have been” contained, highlighting the ongoing threat these wildfires pose to both states. The Rover Road Fire has emerged as one of the most significant blazes causing major destruction across the affected regions.
Weather conditions continue to hamper firefighting efforts as crews work to battle multiple active fires throughout Kansas and Oklahoma. Officials are urging residents in affected areas to remain vigilant and follow evacuation orders as the situation develops.
Indiana Farm Bureau’s leadership is raising concerns about agriculture’s influence during the current state legislative session. Organization President Randy Kron shared with Brownfield that the group faces an unusual challenge this year.
“We’re probably trying to kill more bills than we’re trying to promote. That’s not our normal mode of action by any means. This year it seems like we’ve been on defense,” Kron explained to reporters.
The farm organization’s president highlighted how the current legislative cycle has forced them into an uncharacteristic position, spending more energy opposing potentially harmful legislation rather than advancing pro-agriculture initiatives.
New Castle County’s bomb disposal specialists are holding training exercises at Glasgow Park this morning, with activities expected to wrap up around 11:00 a.m.
The Explosive Ordnance Disposal Team is using the park location for their training session. People visiting the park today should expect to see extra police officers stationed throughout the area while the exercises are taking place.
Officials want the public to be aware of the heightened law enforcement presence during the training period.
The Arbor Day Foundation has once again recognized Rehoboth Beach with its Tree City USA award, marking three and a half decades of consecutive honors for the coastal community’s dedication to urban forestry initiatives.
Cities must meet specific criteria to qualify for this recognition, including establishing a tree board or forestry department, implementing community tree regulations, investing a minimum of $2 per resident in urban forestry programs, and holding Arbor Day festivities. Rehoboth Beach has surpassed these requirements while maintaining its focus on beautifying parks and roadways with tree plantings.
Michael Lilly, who serves as the city’s Urban Forestry and Parks Manager, credits community involvement for helping guide tree selection decisions. Residents provided input that led to choosing Sugar Maples and Northern Red Oaks as replacements for Bradford Pear trees that were removed from Stockley Street Park in the previous year.
The upcoming spring season will see new plantings concentrated around Lake Gerar, where officials plan to introduce six different tree varieties along the walking path. Additional deciduous trees will be planted to create shade coverage for cars parked on Lake Avenue. This initiative is expected to add 21 new trees to the area.
As part of the city’s ongoing multi-year street tree expansion program, Lilly has identified Hickman Street, Country Club Drive, and State Road as locations for new plantings scheduled for this fall. Last year saw the addition of 24 new street trees, and officials aim to match that number with this year’s autumn planting efforts.
“Continuing this planting cycle of public space plantings in spring and city streets in the fall,” Lilly says, “I hope to increase our overall canopy and native diversity.”
Rehoboth Elementary students will join city officials for an Arbor Day celebration in April, featuring a tree planting ceremony and proclamation event at Stockley Park.
The Arbor Day Foundation operates as an international nonprofit organization dedicated to encouraging tree planting, care, and appreciation worldwide. The organization has built a network of over one million supporters, leaders, and volunteers who share the vision that trees can help create a better future. Over five decades, the foundation and its partners have planted more than 500 million trees. The Tree City USA initiative operates through partnerships with the National Association of State Foresters and the USDA Forest Service.
A quick-moving storm system will bring multiple rounds of rain to the Delmarva region beginning Thursday evening and continuing into Friday morning.
Low pressure tracking into the western Great Lakes will push a surface warm front toward the Mid-Atlantic tonight. As this front approaches, moisture will increase across Delaware and Maryland’s Eastern Shore, leading to widespread precipitation.
Two Rounds of Rain
The first round of rain is expected to develop late Thursday afternoon into the evening, spreading across Delmarva and southern New Jersey. A second round will follow overnight into Friday morning, before gradually tapering off from south to north later in the day.
Rainfall totals across Delmarva are expected to range between 0.30 and 0.50 inches, with some locally higher amounts possible depending on how the heavier bands set up. While flooding is not anticipated, ponding on roadways may occur during periods of steadier rain.
Fog Possible Overnight
As milder, moisture-rich air rides up and over cooler surface air, areas of fog may develop late Thursday night into early Friday morning. Reduced visibility could impact the Friday morning commute, particularly in low-lying and rural areas.
Motorists should be prepared for wet roads and localized visibility reductions overnight and early Friday.
Temperature Gradient Friday
A noticeable temperature difference is expected across Delmarva on Friday due to the position of the warm front. Southern areas may turn milder sooner, while northern portions of the peninsula could remain cooler longer before temperatures gradually moderate.
Milder Conditions for Saturday
Behind the system, winds will shift and temperatures will rebound for Saturday. As cloud cover breaks at times, most of the Delmarva coastal plain should see highs climb into the upper 40s to lower 50s, offering a brief break from the recent chill.
A lingering boundary may remain just north of the region, but only a slight chance of light precipitation is expected near the northern fringe of the area. The majority of Delmarva should stay dry Saturday.
MILAN — At just 21 years old, Juraj Slafkovsky is experiencing Olympic success for the second time. The young star earned tournament MVP honors in 2022 when he guided Slovakia to its first-ever Olympic medal — a bronze in Beijing — at age 17.
The difference this time around is significant: NHL stars are competing in Milan, raising the competition level dramatically. Yet Slovakia has once again advanced to medal contention by securing a semifinal spot.
“It’s probably 100 times better,” Slafkovsky commented following their quarterfinal victory over Germany. “You’ve got the best players over here, and we managed to come here and go to semifinals. It’s big for me, big for our country.”
The semifinal appearance caught everyone off guard. With Slafkovsky at 21, Dalibor Dvorsky at 20, and Simon Nemec at 22, this tournament was expected to serve as preparation for future competitions like the 2028 World Cup of Hockey and 2030 Olympics in the French Alps.
Yet Slafkovsky and Dvorsky have emerged as the leaders of hockey’s most compelling underdog story in Milan.
“In a tournament like this, underdogs can bite really hard, so we are really happy where are right now,” said Pavol Regenda, who netted two goals in the quarterfinal win against Germany. “Coming into the tournament, seeing the roster, I don’t think anybody believed us. And probably neither did we.”
Slovakia previously competed at this level a generation earlier, when stars like Zdeno Chara, Marian Hossa, Marian Gaborik, Pavol Demitra and Miroslav Satan were at their peak performance. The country experienced a talent shortage before this current group of Slovak players developed.
Slafkovsky represents the forefront of this new wave, now in his fourth NHL campaign with the Montreal Canadiens and playing under a fresh eight-year, $60.8 million deal. He tops Slovakia’s scoring with seven points, ranking fifth overall in Olympic scoring.
“He is a great player,” defenseman Martin Fehervary stated. “We didn’t have that type of player for a long, long time in Slovakia. We just got to be really, really happy and thrilled that we’ve got that type of player.”
Dvorsky, who suits up for the St. Louis Blues, has contributed six points across four contests and plays a major role in Slovakia’s semifinal berth. They face an undefeated United States team on Friday. However, coach Vladimir Orszagh and his roster have emphasized that their achievements stem from team unity rather than individual excellence.
“If we want to be successful, it just can’t be about a couple guys,” Orszagh explained. “Our team is not about a couple guys. Our team is about the 22 guys or 25 guys that we have on the roster. They work, they stick together on the ice and every day somebody else is a hero. But, for me, all the guys are heroes.”
Slovakia defeated Finland’s Mikko Rantanen and Sebastian Aho during preliminary play, then overcame Germany’s Leon Draisaitl in the quarterfinals. This caliber of opposition wasn’t present four years ago, making players appreciate competing on this international platform with global attention.
“You can’t compare that,” Nemec observed. “This is the fastest hockey I ever played. It’s different tournament, and we came here to defend the bronze medal and we’re still in that mix. It’s good for us.”
NAIROBI, Kenya — Kenyan intelligence officials have disclosed that approximately 1,000 citizens from their country were deceived into joining Russian forces in Ukraine through fraudulent job recruitment schemes.
Parliamentary leader Kimani Ichung’wah delivered the intelligence findings to lawmakers on Wednesday, claiming that Russian diplomatic personnel worked alongside employment agencies to trick Kenyans with promises of professional positions in Russia. According to Ichung’wah, these individuals received tourist visas before being deployed to combat zones.
Russian Embassy representatives in Nairobi rejected these claims in a Thursday statement, asserting they never provided visas to individuals planning to participate in the Ukraine conflict. The embassy added: “the Russian Federation does not preclude citizens of foreign countries from voluntarily enlisting in the armed forces.”
The National Intelligence Service findings presented by Ichung’wah revealed that 89 Kenyans were actively serving in combat areas, 39 required medical treatment, 28 were unaccounted for, while others had managed to return home. At least one fatality has been verified. The intelligence document also identified specific recruitment organizations allegedly involved in transporting Kenyans to Russia.
Ichung’wah issued a warning that any Kenyan diplomatic staff in Moscow found to be involved in this operation would face accountability.
Multiple Kenyan families have recently appealed to their government for assistance in retrieving relatives trapped in Russia, with some reportedly compelled to serve in combat roles and others detained as prisoners of war in Ukraine.
Returning Kenyan recruits have described being offered professional positions including electrical and plumbing work. These individuals reported signing agreements written in Russian before being deployed to warfare with minimal or no combat preparation.
Kenya’s foreign affairs department had previously recognized this issue and advised citizens to exercise caution.
Authorities arrested two recruitment agents last year who were subsequently released on bail while awaiting court proceedings.
JOHANNESBURG — Police in South Africa have taken the youngest son of Zimbabwe’s late President Robert Mugabe into custody for questioning Thursday following a shooting incident at a Johannesburg residence, according to the country’s public broadcaster.
South African Broadcasting Corporation identified Bellarmine Chatunga Mugabe as one of two individuals detained in connection with the incident, which reportedly took place at his residence. He is the younger son of Zimbabwe’s former president, who passed away in 2019, and Grace Mugabe, his second spouse.
Television footage from SABC showed Bellarmine Chatunga Mugabe restrained with handcuffs in the property’s driveway following the arrival of law enforcement officers.
According to a police statement, a household worker at the residence located in an upscale Johannesburg neighborhood sustained gunshot wounds and remains in critical condition at a medical facility. While authorities did not identify the two individuals brought in for questioning, they confirmed an attempted murder investigation is underway.
“The motive of the shooting is unknown at this stage and police investigations are underway,” police spokesperson Col. Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi said.
The elder Mugabe governed Zimbabwe for nearly four decades until military forces removed him from power in 2017. He passed away in Singapore two years following his ouster at age 95.
This isn’t the first legal trouble for the Mugabe family. Bellarmine Chatunga Mugabe’s elder sibling, Robert Mugabe Jr., paid a $300 penalty in Zimbabwe last year following a guilty plea to cannabis possession charges.
Their mother, Grace Mugabe, faced allegations of attacking a model while her sons Robert Jr. and Bellarmine were present at an upscale Johannesburg hotel in 2017. Though she served as Zimbabwe’s first lady during the incident and was initially summoned to court, she ultimately received diplomatic immunity protection.
LONDON — Thames Valley Police officers arrested Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor on Thursday morning, taking the former British royal into custody on charges of misconduct in public office connected to his relationship with deceased convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
The detention occurred at Sandringham, King Charles III’s private estate where Mountbatten-Windsor currently resides. This marks the most significant legal action taken against the former prince following years of scrutiny over his ties to Epstein, who died by suicide in a New York jail cell in 2019.
Authorities are investigating claims that Mountbatten-Windsor improperly shared classified trade documents with Epstein during his tenure as Britain’s special representative for international trade in 2010.
The charges stem from recently released Justice Department files containing millions of pages of Epstein-related documents. These materials allegedly include email correspondence showing Mountbatten-Windsor forwarding confidential reports about official diplomatic visits to Hong Kong, Vietnam, and Singapore.
One particularly damaging email from November 2010 appears to show Andrew forwarding a message just five minutes after receiving it. Another correspondence from Christmas Eve 2010 allegedly shows him sending Epstein classified information regarding investment possibilities in Afghanistan’s Helmand Province reconstruction efforts.
This development represents one of the most serious challenges facing the British royal family in over a century. Legal experts compare its potential impact to King Edward VIII’s 1936 abdication and Princess Diana’s death in 1997.
The Crown Prosecution Service characterizes misconduct in public office as “serious willful abuse or neglect of the power or responsibilities of the public office held.” While this offense theoretically carries a life sentence, legal professionals expect any conviction would result in a shorter prison term.
Criminal defense attorney Sean Caulfield from Hodge Jones & Allen explained the prosecution’s challenge: “Firstly, it must be determined if Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor was in a role within government that constitutes the title of public officer.”
Legal experts note that proving misconduct in public office cases presents significant difficulties for prosecutors.
British law permits police to detain suspects for up to 24 hours without filing charges, with possible extensions up to 96 hours maximum. Officers have authority to search Mountbatten-Windsor’s properties and conduct formal questioning during this period.
Law enforcement teams are currently searching locations in Berkshire and Norfolk. Windsor Castle, Mountbatten-Windsor’s former residence until recently, sits in Berkshire, while his current home at Sandringham is located in Norfolk.
Grosvenor Law partner Andrew Gilmore outlined the prosecution’s next steps, explaining they must apply the “Code for Crown Prosecutors” two-stage evaluation.
“That test is to determine whether there is a more realistic prospect of a conviction than not based on the evidence and whether the matter is in the public interest,” Gilmore stated. “If these two tests are met, then the matter will be charged and proceed to court.”
This arrest marks the first time a senior British royal has faced detention in nearly four centuries, dating back to King Charles I’s arrest that ultimately led to his execution and temporary elimination of the monarchy.
King Charles III responded to his brother’s arrest with a brief statement emphasizing judicial independence. “As this process continues, it would not be right for me to comment further on this matter,” the king wrote, signing the statement Charles R. “My family and I will continue in our duty and service to you all.”
Queen Camilla declined to respond to reporters’ questions outside a London concert venue, offering only waves to cameras. Sarah Ferguson, Mountbatten-Windsor’s former spouse, has not issued any public statements regarding the arrest. She faces her own allegations concerning Epstein connections.
Mountbatten-Windsor has consistently denied any wrongdoing but has remained silent regarding these latest accusations. The investigation continues as multiple UK police departments conduct their own inquiries into the matter.
BANGKOK — A key figure in Myanmar’s armed resistance movement has given himself up to the country’s military forces after coming under fire from competing opposition groups, according to government media reports released Thursday.
Bo Nagar, who commanded the Burma National Revolutionary Army (BNRA) in Myanmar’s upper-central Sagaing area, made the decision to surrender in what underscores the deep divisions plaguing the armed opposition movement. These internal conflicts have sparked intermittent fighting over territorial control and governance issues.
The Sagaing region has served as a hub for armed opposition since Myanmar’s military overthrew Aung San Suu Kyi’s democratically elected administration in 2021. When security forces violently suppressed peaceful protests, many civilians joined armed groups, plunging much of the nation into ongoing civil conflict.
According to Thursday’s coverage in the government-controlled Myanma Alinn publication, Bo Nagar — who also goes by Naing Lin — along with relatives reached out to military officials at a base in Pale township within Sagaing Region on Wednesday afternoon to “return to the legal fold.” Government media displayed images of Bo Nagar alongside various weapons he had handed over.
Independent Myanmar news outlets provided extensive Wednesday reports indicating that Bo Nagar and several family members were evacuated by military helicopters from his base of operations in central Sagaing.
The official newspaper stated that additional resistance members who surrender “will be welcomed and accepted, provided with the necessary assistance and support, and cash rewards for any arms and ammunition.”
Bo Nagar’s departure followed assaults on his organization by People’s Defense Force (PDF) units, which operate under the oversight of the shadow National Unity Government. The NUG was formed by democratically elected officials who were removed from power during the 2021 military takeover.
Friction had been building between Bo Nagar’s forces and regional PDF groups since the previous year due to accusations that BNRA fighters were demanding money at roadway checkpoints.
These conflicts reportedly escalated last week when the BNRA acknowledged killing a PDF member during a disagreement over weaponry. On Tuesday, PDF forces responded by attacking MNRA positions.
A Wednesday statement from the NUG maintained that the dispute emerged after BNRA personnel declined to participate in investigations regarding alleged criminal activities, including PDF member deaths and sexual assault. The statement also claimed approximately 150 BNRA members had defected to join PDF ranks.
NUG spokesperson Nay Phone Latt informed The Associated Press on Thursday that the NUG attempted to address reported criminal behavior by certain BNRA members, but Bo Nagar, who appeared to maintain regular communication with military officials, was extracted by army aircraft.
“We have received reports of child rape and other crimes committed by some BNRA members, including Bo Nagar,” Nay Phone Latt said.
Bo Nagar remained unavailable for response since entering military custody.
During the initial phase of armed opposition, Bo Nagar gained significant recognition as a leading resistance figure after first commanding a locally organized guerrilla unit called the Myanmar Royal Dragon Army, which had partnered with the NUG and became a priority target for Myanmar’s armed forces. He reorganized his forces as the BNRA in September 2023, reducing connections with PDF operations.
Delaware residents are part of a nationwide trend that saw Americans take out personal loans at unprecedented levels in 2024, according to a new financial industry report.
TransUnion’s Credit Industry Insights Report reveals that outstanding balances for unsecured personal loans jumped 10% last year, reaching an all-time record of $276 billion. The number of Americans carrying these loans also climbed from 24.5 million to 26.4 million by December’s end.
The dramatic increase stems largely from borrowers with lower credit scores seeking financial alternatives as living expenses continue outpacing income growth.
“As interest rates began to fall, many consumers are consolidating their credit card balances into unsecured loans,” explained Michele Raneri, vice president and head of U.S. research and consulting at TransUnion.
Raneri noted that consumers with limited income are increasingly turning to these financial products as temporary solutions while struggling with elevated costs of living that haven’t been offset by comparable salary increases.
Meanwhile, credit card companies expanded their lending to lower-income customers, pushing total credit card debt up 4% to $1.15 trillion. However, these same lenders implemented stricter initial credit limits to manage potential losses, while delinquency rates have gradually climbed in recent months.
Looking ahead, TransUnion anticipates the lending market will experience more modest expansion this year as conditions return to typical patterns following years of pandemic-related volatility.
“The credit markets are now going back to more ‘normal’ growth levels, after strong fluctuations since the pandemic,” Raneri stated.
The credit reporting agency recently updated its 2026 projections, now predicting an 11.2% increase in new unsecured loan originations, up from their earlier forecast of 5.7%. They also expect mortgage activity to rise 4% while home refinancing applications climb 4.2%.
“People that have recent mortgages taken with higher interest rates are starting to have access to refinancing and we expect that demand to grow,” the TransUnion executive added.
Auto lending presents a different picture, with TransUnion forecasting a 1.5% decline this year after approximately 5% growth in 2024, when buyers rushed to make purchases ahead of potential import tariff impacts.
A Palestinian committee backed by the United States has launched a recruitment campaign for law enforcement officers in Gaza, marking a significant step as President Donald Trump prepares to present his peace initiative for the region.
The National Committee for the Administration of Gaza announced Thursday that it is accepting applications from qualified candidates interested in joining a new police force for the territory. This development comes just ahead of Trump’s inaugural Board of Peace meeting in Washington.
During the upcoming meeting, Trump is anticipated to reveal a multi-billion-dollar rebuilding initiative for Gaza and outline plans for a United Nations-authorized peacekeeping force in the Palestinian territory. Creating a stable security environment represents one of numerous significant challenges ahead.
The committee posted on social media platform X that the recruitment process “is open to qualified men and women who wish to serve in the police force.” The announcement directed interested candidates to an online application portal.
According to the application requirements, candidates must be Gaza residents between ages 18 and 35, possess clean criminal backgrounds, and meet physical fitness standards.
Previous Reuters reporting indicated that Hamas, the Islamist organization, has been working to integrate its existing 10,000 police officers into the new U.S.-supported Palestinian government structure. Hamas maintained control before the conflict that began with its assault on Israel and has resumed administrative duties despite Israel’s commitment to eliminate the group.
Following a ceasefire agreement negotiated by President Trump in October, Hamas maintains authority over slightly less than half of Gaza, while Israel occupies more than 50% of the territory.
Israel’s military withdrawal and Hamas’s disarmament remain major obstacles as the United States works to advance its peace strategy for the area.
The comprehensive 20-point peace proposal, currently in its second implementation phase, designates NCAG as Gaza’s governing body, specifically excluding Hamas participation.
In their announcement, NCAG acknowledged “the dedication of the police officers who continued to serve their people amidst the bombardment, displacement, and exceptionally difficult circumstances.”
The committee did not specify whether current Gaza police personnel, who have operated under Hamas authority, would be eligible for positions in the new force.
Neither NCAG nor Hamas provided immediate responses to requests for comment regarding the recruitment initiative.
Hamas representative Hazem Qassem had previously stated to Reuters that the organization stands ready to transfer governmental responsibilities to the 15-member NCAG and its leader, Ali Shaath, without delay.
“We (have) full confidence that it will operate on the basis of benefiting from qualified personnel and not wasting the rights of anyone who worked during the previous period,” Qassem stated, referring to the potential inclusion of more than 40,000 government workers and security staff.
Israel has firmly opposed any Hamas participation in Gaza’s future governance.
More than two years of Israeli military operations have left Gaza severely damaged, with local health officials reporting over 72,000 Palestinian deaths and widespread destruction throughout the territory.
The conflict began when Hamas-led militants launched an attack against Israel on October 7, 2023, resulting in 1,200 Israeli deaths and the capture of more than 250 hostages, according to Israeli government figures.
A family feud over one of the world’s largest eyewear companies may be coming to a resolution as one heir attempts to buy out two of his siblings in a deal worth billions of dollars.
Leonardo Maria Del Vecchio is working to purchase an additional 25% ownership in Delfin, the family holding company that controls eyewear giant EssilorLuxottica, according to a source familiar with the situation who spoke to Reuters.
The late Leonardo Del Vecchio, who founded the Ray-Ban eyewear empire and passed away in 2022, left his Luxembourg-based holding company equally divided among his eight children. This arrangement has created ongoing conflicts that have blocked major financial decisions for the past three years.
Internal disagreements among the family members have stopped the company from distributing dividends beyond 10% of net profits and have prevented any modifications to how the business is managed. Francesco Milleri currently holds dual roles as both EssilorLuxottica’s CEO and Delfin’s chairman.
Leonardo Maria, who serves as EssilorLuxottica’s Chief Strategy Officer and leads the Ray-Ban brand, hopes this acquisition will end the prolonged deadlock, the source explained. The transaction would likely be completed at a reduced price compared to Delfin’s current asset value, following standard market practices.
When contacted for comment, Delfin representatives declined to provide a statement.
Italian publication La Repubblica first reported Thursday that Leonardo Maria Del Vecchio had formally notified Delfin and fellow shareholders of his plans to exercise his right of first refusal on shares owned by his brother Luca and sister Paola. Each sibling owns a 12.5% portion, and together their stakes are valued at roughly 14 billion euros based on current market assessments.
The newspaper also revealed that Luca and Paola had previously tried to move their shares into different corporate structures but couldn’t obtain the necessary shareholder approval during a Delfin meeting. Additionally, another sibling, Marisa, had requested that the holding company itself acquire the shares and asked for additional time to arrange a possible deal.
Beyond its controlling interest in EssilorLuxottica, Delfin maintains investments in several major companies including Covivio, Banca Monte dei Paschi, Generali, and UniCredit.
As the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine approaches, draft experts from Field Level Media have compiled their rankings of the most promising defensive tackle candidates heading into the evaluation process.
Defensive line players are scheduled to arrive in Indianapolis on Tuesday, with media sessions planned for Wednesday and field demonstrations set for Thursday. The position group will complete bench press testing on Friday.
1. Peter Woods, Clemson
Standing 6-3 and weighing 315 pounds, Woods combines remarkable athleticism with quick footwork, sharp agility, and powerful burst capability. Analysts expect him to record a 40-yard dash time in the 4.8-second range.
2. Kayden McDonald, Ohio State
The 6-2, 326-pound nose tackle brings a substantial frame along with disruptive play and reliable interior pressure. While his natural instincts stand out, McDonald continues working to polish the technical aspects of his performance.
3. Caleb Banks, Florida
At 6-6 and 334 pounds, Banks possesses uncommon size paired with athletic ability, making him an effective run defender at the nose tackle position. He demonstrates explosive initial movement but must address concerns about his injury background.
4. Lee Hunter, Texas Tech
The 6-3, 322-pound prospect shows unexpected mobility for his frame size while maintaining an active playing style that creates difficulties for offensive linemen attempting to establish and maintain blocking assignments.
5. Domonique Orange, Iowa State
Orange, measuring 6-2 and 325 pounds, serves as a powerful and disruptive force against running plays, with observers expecting him to post impressive bench press numbers. Questions remain about his overall mobility and arm reach measurements.
Penn State’s Zane Durant, weighing 285 pounds, may choose to postpone his complete workout until his school’s pro day, though he could decide to participate in Thursday’s 40-yard dash to demonstrate his exceptional straight-line speed as he works to improve his draft position.
The University of Delaware ice hockey program is about to make history with their first-ever playoff appearance, scheduled to take place against Robert Morris.
This milestone represents a significant achievement for the Blue Hens hockey team, marking their debut in postseason competition. The matchup against Robert Morris will be a defining moment for the Delaware program as they enter uncharted territory in playoff hockey.
The historic playoff game showcases the growth and development of ice hockey at the University of Delaware, demonstrating the program’s progression to competitive postseason play.
Canada saw its international trade deficit shrink substantially in December, with export growth outpacing import increases, according to new government data released Thursday. Meanwhile, the proportion of Canadian goods shipped to the United States reached a historic low point.
The northern nation recorded a trade deficit of C$1.31 billion ($957 million) last month, a significant improvement from November’s revised C$2.59 billion shortfall, Statistics Canada reported. Financial analysts had projected the December deficit would be approximately C$2 billion.
Export revenues climbed 2.6% to reach C$65.63 billion, with metals and non-metallic mineral shipments driving much of the increase through an 18% surge in December. Unwrought gold exports led this category with gains exceeding 37%, boosted by rising commodity prices.
When metals and non-metallic products are excluded from calculations, Canadian exports actually declined by 0.2%. The statistics agency noted that total export volumes increased 1.4%.
Import spending grew more modestly at 0.6% to C$66.93 billion, with increases recorded across six of eleven product categories. Gold, passenger vehicles, and energy products accounted for most of the import growth.
Regarding trade with America, shipments to Canada’s primary trading partner increased 1.1%, representing just over 67.4% of all exports compared to 76.2% during the same period last year.
While this marked the first quarterly percentage increase in southbound shipments in three months, the American share of Canadian exports dropped to its lowest point since data tracking commenced, with only two pandemic months in 2020 showing lower figures.
The US export share stood at 68.4% in November and 67.5% in October.
American imports into Canada rose at a faster 3.5% rate, reducing Canada’s trade surplus with its southern neighbor from C$6.5 billion in November to C$5.7 billion.
Conversely, Canadian exports to non-US destinations maintained their upward trend, setting a new record high in December. Gold shipments to the United Kingdom generated most of these gains.
Imports from nations other than the United States decreased 3% in December, and Canada’s trade deficit with non-US countries improved from $9 billion in November to $7 billion, according to StatsCan.
The Canadian dollar strengthened slightly, trading up 0.03% at 1.3690 against the US dollar, equivalent to 73.05 cents. Two-year government bond yields rose 0.9 basis points to 2.236%.
WASHINGTON – Americans seeking unemployment benefits filed fewer new claims than anticipated last week, signaling potential stabilization in the nation’s job market.
New filings for state unemployment assistance decreased by 23,000 to a seasonally adjusted 206,000 during the week ending February 14, according to Thursday’s Labor Department report. Economic analysts surveyed by Reuters had predicted 225,000 new claims for that period. This represents a substantial improvement from late January when claims spiked to 232,000.
Federal Reserve meeting records from January 27-28, released Wednesday, revealed that the “vast majority of participants judged that labor market conditions had been showing some signs of stabilization.” However, officials continue to worry about potential risks facing employment.
The Fed minutes also highlighted concerns from some officials who “pointed to the possibility that a further fall in labor demand could push the unemployment rate sharply higher in a low-hiring environment or that the concentration of job gains in a few less cyclically sensitive sectors was potentially signaling heightened vulnerability in the overall labor market.”
This unemployment data comes from the same period when government officials conducted their employer survey for February’s employment statistics. While January showed improved job creation, healthcare and social assistance sectors accounted for nearly all new positions.
Both policymakers and economic experts cite immigration policies as factors limiting job expansion. Ongoing uncertainty surrounding import tariffs continues to discourage hiring decisions, while artificial intelligence technology adds another element of employer hesitation, analysts noted.
Meanwhile, Americans collecting unemployment benefits beyond their first week – an indicator of hiring activity – rose by 17,000 to a seasonally adjusted 1.869 million for the week ending February 7.
These continuing benefit claims indicate that unemployed workers are struggling to secure new employment opportunities.
The typical length of unemployment has reached near four-year peaks. This hiring shortage particularly affects recent college graduates, who often lack sufficient work history to qualify for unemployment benefits and therefore don’t appear in claims statistics.
Delaware and Mid-Atlantic farmers are expected to join a nationwide shift toward planting more soybeans and reducing corn acreage in 2026, according to new projections released Thursday by federal agriculture officials.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture predicts farmers will plant approximately 94 million acres of corn this year, representing a decrease from the 89-year record high of 98.8 million acres planted in 2025. Meanwhile, soybean plantings are anticipated to increase to 85 million acres, up from 81.2 million acres the previous year.
Agricultural producers across the region are grappling with challenging economic conditions this planting season, including oversupplied global markets, depressed commodity prices, and escalating expenses for essential farming supplies like seeds and fertilizer. Federal data shows farm income is expected to decline by 0.7% even with near-record government support payments, which are projected to represent almost 29% of producers’ total revenue.
Throughout the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic regions, most agricultural operations cultivate both commodities, typically rotating between corn and soybeans on individual fields annually to maintain soil nutrients and health. However, some farmers may deviate from this standard rotation pattern when market conditions present opportunities for improved profitability.
The federal agency’s corn acreage projection, announced during its yearly Agricultural Outlook Forum, fell short of analyst expectations. A Reuters survey of industry experts had predicted an average of 94.9 million corn acres, while the soybean forecast exceeded the anticipated 84.9 million acres.
Depressed corn values and abundant stockpiles following a record-breaking U.S. harvest in 2025 are likely to discourage farmers from expanding corn plantings this season. However, strong demand from international buyers and ethanol biofuel producers should prevent more dramatic reductions, according to market analysts.
Soybean acreage is expected to grow despite continuing trade disputes with China, the largest importer, and intense competition from Brazil, where farmers are currently harvesting what appears to be a record crop. Increased domestic demand for soybean oil from renewable fuel manufacturers has helped maintain price stability.
Under typical weather conditions, federal forecasters project the 2026 U.S. corn harvest will reach 15.755 billion bushels, while soybean production is expected to total 4.450 billion bushels.
After meeting demand from exporters, livestock producers, and biofuel manufacturers, the United States is projected to have 1.837 billion bushels of corn remaining at the conclusion of the 2026/27 marketing year on August 31, 2027. This represents a decline from the seven-year peak of 2.127 billion bushels anticipated a year earlier.
Soybean inventory levels at the end of the 2026/27 season are forecast to increase modestly to 355 million bushels from 350 million bushels at the close of 2025/26.
Export projections show corn shipments declining to 3.1 billion bushels in 2026/27, down 200 million bushels from the previous year due to increased competition from South American suppliers. Conversely, soybean exports are expected to rise by 125 million bushels to reach a two-year high of 1.7 billion bushels.
Domestic soybean processing demand, which crushes beans into meal for animal feed and oil for food and biofuel applications, is projected to reach a record 2.655 billion bushels.
Wheat stockpiles are forecast at 933 million bushels by the end of the 2026/27 marketing year, remaining essentially flat from the previous year as reduced exports following large harvests in competing nations Argentina and Australia balance out decreased U.S. production.
Federal officials project wheat exports for 2026/27 at 850 million bushels, representing a 50 million bushel decrease from the current marketing year.
Delaware’s Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control has announced the schedule for the 2026 spring trout fishing season in downstate ponds, giving young anglers the first opportunity to cast their lines.
The season will kick off on Saturday, March 7, with fishing restricted exclusively to youth anglers who are younger than 16 years old. This special youth-only day allows young fishing enthusiasts to enjoy the newly stocked ponds without competing with adult anglers.
The general trout season for all anglers will commence the following day, Sunday, March 8, beginning thirty minutes prior to sunrise. This timing allows all Delaware fishing license holders to participate in the popular annual tradition.
The announcement follows the state’s established pattern of providing youth anglers with dedicated access before opening the season to the general public, encouraging young people to develop an interest in fishing and outdoor recreation.
ANNAPOLIS, MD – State agriculture officials announced Tuesday they have lifted bird flu restrictions across Caroline County, Maryland, signaling progress in containing the recent outbreak.
The Maryland Department of Agriculture confirmed February 19, 2026, that the control zone previously established in Caroline County has been officially released. This development allows most agricultural operations in the area to return to normal activities.
While the broader restrictions have been removed, the farm where the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) was originally detected continues to operate under quarantine protocols. All other agricultural facilities within the former restricted zone may now resume standard operations, provided they don’t fall within any other active control zones established elsewhere in the state.
The control area release represents a significant step forward in Maryland’s efforts to manage and contain the bird flu outbreak that prompted the initial restrictions.
A nutritional shortage is becoming an increasingly serious concern for corn producers throughout North America, with sulfur deficiency causing significant damage to crop yields. Agricultural specialists are urging farmers to focus on resolving root system complications during the initial phases of the growing season.
This nutritional gap, often referred to as “hidden hunger,” is expanding across the continent and creating challenges for agricultural operations. The deficiency affects the plant’s ability to develop properly, ultimately resulting in decreased harvest outcomes for farming operations.
Experts recommend that growers take proactive measures early in the planting cycle to address these foundational issues before they impact the overall health and productivity of their corn crops.
President Trump held the inaugural session of his newly-formed Board of Peace Thursday, gathering delegates from more than 40 nations along with observers from an additional dozen countries. The first meeting centered on rebuilding efforts in Gaza and establishing an international stabilization force for the territory, where a fragile ceasefire remains in effect.
According to Trump, board participants have committed $5 billion toward reconstruction efforts, though this represents only a small portion of the estimated $70 billion experts say is required to fully restore the Palestinian region. The group is also expected to provide thousands of personnel for international security and police operations, raising concerns that Trump aims to establish an alternative to the United Nations.
Vatican Emphasizes UN’s Primary Role
Earlier this week, Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin expressed to reporters that “at the international level it should above all be the U.N. that manages these crisis situations.”
The Trump administration responded Wednesday with pushback from White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt: “This president has a very bold and ambitious plan and vision to rebuild and reconstruct Gaza, which is well underway because of the Board of Peace. This is a legitimate organization where there are tens of member countries from around the world.”
U.S. ambassador to the U.N. Mike Waltz emphasized that the board is “not talking, it is doing.”
“We are hearing the chattering class criticizing the structure of the board, that it’s unconventional, that it’s unprecedented,” Waltz stated. “Again, the old ways were not working.”
Trump’s Perspective on UN Effectiveness
Earlier this week, Trump expressed hope that the board would encourage the U.N. to “get on the ball.”
“The United Nations has great potential,” he commented. “They haven’t lived up to the potential.”
Security Council Criticizes Israeli West Bank Actions
On Wednesday, ahead of Trump’s Board of Peace gathering, United Nations Security Council members demanded that the Gaza ceasefire become permanent while condemning Israeli plans to expand control in the West Bank as undermining the possibility of a two-state solution. The council convened to address the future of Palestinian territories.
Participating Nations
Countries that have announced their participation include Argentina, Albania, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Belarus, Bulgaria, Cambodia, Egypt, El Salvador, Hungary, Indonesia, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kuwait, Kosovo, Morocco, Mongolia, Pakistan, Paraguay, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, Uzbekistan and Vietnam.
Expanded Mission Beyond Gaza
The board’s scope has grown since its creation as part of Trump’s 20-point peace proposal to end the Gaza conflict. Following the October ceasefire, Trump envisions an expanded mandate that would not only achieve lasting peace between Israel and Hamas but also help address global conflicts.
Challenges in Hamas Disarmament
Central to ongoing discussions is the question of how to disarm Hamas. Israel has made the creation of an armed international stabilization force a key requirement, viewing it as essential for maintaining security and ensuring Hamas gives up its weapons as part of the ceasefire agreement.
So far, only Indonesia has made a concrete commitment to contribute to Trump’s proposed force. Meanwhile, Hamas has shown little indication of willingness to proceed with disarmament.
When Debra Whitman received an urgent call that her father had been rushed to the hospital in severe pain, she immediately flew back to Maryland from a business trip and spent several days helping him recover in his rural Washington state community, including setting up mobility equipment to help him get around.
What made this family crisis manageable for Whitman, who works as AARP’s chief public policy officer, was her employer’s paid caregiving leave program – a workplace benefit that employment specialists say is becoming increasingly common as America’s population grows older.
“Instead of having to take all my vacation, I could take several days of caregiving leave while I was out there,” Whitman said. “That’s been a huge godsend for a lot of my staff.”
According to AARP data, more than 63 million Americans currently provide care for adult family members while also maintaining regular employment. These dual responsibilities create significant challenges for workers, particularly those in the “sandwich generation” who are simultaneously caring for aging parents and raising their own children.
Research from New York Life Group Benefit Solutions shows that typical caregivers dedicate approximately six hours daily to assisting elderly relatives, according to company vice president Meghan Shea, whose firm handles life insurance and leave administration for employers.
“The challenge is that leave isn’t unlimited,” Shea said. “The average caregiving role spans about six years. So really, it’s a life change for these employees, and they need to figure out how to balance responsibilities in a new way, and that’s very stressful.”
Currently, federal law through the Family and Medical Leave Act allows eligible workers up to 12 weeks of unpaid time off annually to care for immediate family members. This protection applies to government agencies and private companies with 50 or more employees, requiring them to maintain health coverage and job security during leave periods, the Department of Labor reports.
However, this federal protection has limitations – it doesn’t cover all workplaces and fails to address the financial hardship many families face when taking unpaid leave.
More than a dozen states have implemented paid family leave programs that cover caregiving situations, whether for newborns or family members with serious medical conditions. These state programs typically provide partial salary replacement, though the duration and specific benefits differ by location.
“Many people have to quit their jobs in order to care for somebody, and that not only affects their income but their retirement benefits, and then there’s a loss of productivity for the employer who may have lost a great person,” Whitman said. “Finding ways to support family caregivers is a huge employment issue right now.”
As demand grows, numerous employers are introducing comprehensive caregiving support programs, including flexible work schedules and resource assistance. Employment experts suggest job seekers prioritize companies that offer caregiver-friendly policies.
Shea advises asking specific questions during job interviews when caregiving benefits matter to you, including inquiries about leave duration, payment status, usage flexibility, and what additional support the company provides beyond federal and state requirements.
Most employers offering paid caregiving leave provide between two and six weeks annually, though some extend coverage up to 12 weeks, reports Meghan Pistritto, a vice president at Prudential Financial’s group insurance division.
“Caregiving is a reality for a significant portion of the workforce,” Pistritto said. “The positive news is that employers are stepping up and they’re supporting their teams here. We’re seeing a lot of growth both in the employer-provided as well as in state-mandated paid leave programs that are showing up across the U.S.”
AARP provides qualified staff members up to two weeks of paid caregiving time annually for family members or domestic partners with serious health issues, or those over 50 who need assistance with daily activities like meal preparation, medical appointments, and financial management.
Remote work capabilities and flexible scheduling prove especially valuable when companies actively promote and normalize these arrangements, Pistritto noted. She emphasizes that managers should encourage open discussions about caregiving needs and regularly check on employee wellbeing, creating an environment where workers feel comfortable sharing their situations without fear of workplace stigma.
“Comprehensive paid leave is just the starting point. Genuine caregiver-friendly employers also provide practical resources such as access to counseling, backup care services, and caregiver support groups,” Pistritto said.
Many companies now provide access to “care concierges” – specialists who help employees locate healthcare providers, understand available benefits, and navigate complex systems like Medicare.
Whitman utilized AARP’s concierge service to find local caregivers who could assist her father when she couldn’t be present. “Just having that list was a really important step,” she said. These services also help workers locate medical equipment and arrange home modifications.
When taking time off isn’t possible, advancing technology offers new solutions for caregivers to monitor loved ones while maintaining their professional responsibilities.
Susan Hammond, who lives across from her mother with dementia in rural Vermont, spends four to five hours daily helping with meals, medication, and personal care while operating the War Legacies Project, a nonprofit addressing environmental and health impacts from conflicts in Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia.
During work hours and overnight, Hammond relies on cameras and motion sensors installed throughout her mother’s home that send alerts to her phone or watch when doors open. Her mother sometimes wanders outside, confused about her location.
“The concern really is wandering. And she has said to me, ‘Why am I here? I’ve got to go home.’ At times from the camera, I can see she’s trying to get out and leave the house,” Hammond said.
Her work requires travel throughout the United States and Asia, and the monitoring system allows her to oversee her mother’s safety from distant locations while siblings provide hands-on care. During one medical emergency while Hammond was traveling, the technology enabled her to communicate with both her mother and emergency responders.
“I can always know where she is just by looking at my watch,” Hammond said. “Because we can monitor the cameras and monitor the alarms, I know she’s safe.”
Weekly unemployment benefit applications dropped significantly last week, continuing a trend of relatively low job losses nationwide, according to federal data released Thursday.
Claims for unemployment assistance declined by 23,000 during the week that concluded February 14, reaching 206,000 total applications, the Labor Department announced. This figure came in well below the 225,000 new claims that economists polled by FactSet had predicted.
These weekly unemployment filings serve as a key gauge of job market stability and provide near real-time insight into employment trends across the country.
The Labor Department revealed earlier this month that employers nationwide created an unexpectedly robust 130,000 positions in January, while the jobless rate dropped from 4.4% to 4.3%. However, significant revisions to employment data slashed 2024-2025 job creation figures by hundreds of thousands, bringing last year’s total to merely 181,000 new positions. This represents roughly one-third of the initially reported 584,000 jobs and marks the poorest performance since 2020’s pandemic year.
Although weekly job losses have consistently stayed within the historically modest range of 200,000 to 250,000 over recent years, several major corporations have recently declared workforce reductions, including UPS, Amazon, Dow, and the Washington Post.
The growing number of layoff declarations throughout the past year, coupled with government employment reports showing sluggish growth, has contributed to rising economic pessimism among Americans, despite the economy’s continued solid expansion.
Recent Labor Department findings also indicated that available job positions dropped in December to their lowest point in over five years.
Information gathered over the past year has consistently shown an employment landscape where new hiring has noticeably decelerated, hampered by economic uncertainty driven by President Donald Trump’s tariff policies and the ongoing impact of elevated interest rates implemented by the Federal Reserve during 2022 and 2023 to combat pandemic-related inflation.
Economic experts remain divided on whether January’s unexpectedly strong job growth represents an isolated occurrence or potentially signals the beginning of labor market recovery, which might prompt the Federal Reserve to postpone additional interest rate reductions.
Several Federal Reserve officials have specifically contended that last year’s weak employment growth demonstrates that current borrowing costs are hampering economic expansion and deterring business growth. Sustained improvement in hiring patterns could challenge this assessment.
Thursday’s Labor Department data revealed that the four-week rolling average of unemployment claims, which smooths out weekly fluctuations, decreased by 1,000 to reach 219,000.
The overall count of Americans receiving unemployment benefits for the week ending February 7 rose to 1.87 million, representing an increase of 17,000 from the prior week, according to government figures.
MILAN (AP) — Winter Olympic competitors in Milan Cortina have chosen a South Korean bobsledder and an Estonian biathlon athlete to serve as their voices on the International Olympic Committee following Thursday’s election results.
Yunjong Won from South Korea and Johanna Talihärm from Estonia secured eight-year positions that will give them voting power in selecting the host city for the 2036 Summer Olympic Games.
In the competitive election featuring 11 candidates, Won secured the top spot with 1,176 votes while Talihärm claimed the second available position with 983 votes. Olympic officials reported that 2,393 athletes participated in the voting process, representing 83.4% of all eligible Winter Games competitors.
Several prominent athletes were unsuccessful in their bids, including Chinese figure skating champion Cong Han, Canadian ski cross Olympic winner Marielle Thompson, and Ukrainian aerials skiing champion Oleksandr Abramenko.
Won, age 40, guided his four-person bobsled team to a silver medal during the 2018 Pyeongchang Olympics on home soil. His Olympic experience spans three Winter Games, having also participated in Sochi 2014 and Beijing 2022.
Talihärm, 32, brings experience from competing in the same three recent Winter Olympic competitions.
The pair will join the IOC’s current roster of 107 members, taking over from Finnish ice hockey athlete Emma Terho and Norwegian cross-country skier Astrid Uhrenholdt Jacobsen, whose eight-year commitments conclude this Sunday. The IOC maintains 15 designated positions specifically for elected athlete representatives.
Terho has served athletes’ interests on the IOC Executive Board since 2021. She succeeded Kirsty Coventry in that role, who now holds the position of IOC president.
ISLAMABAD — Following a devastating suicide bombing that claimed the lives of 11 Pakistani soldiers and a young girl, Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry has formally confronted Afghanistan’s diplomatic representative with strong objections.
On Wednesday, Pakistani officials called in Afghanistan’s deputy head of mission in Islamabad to deliver an official diplomatic complaint regarding Monday’s deadly assault in the northwestern Bajaur district. Pakistani authorities maintain that militants operating from Afghan territory carried out the attack.
“Pakistan reserves the right to respond and eliminate those who were behind the attack wherever they may be located, to protect its soldiers, civilians and borders,” the ministry declared in its statement. Afghan officials have not yet responded to the accusations.
Relations between the two nations have remained tense following violent border confrontations in October 2025 that resulted in numerous deaths among soldiers, civilians, and suspected militants. Those clashes erupted after explosions rocked Kabul on October 9, which Afghanistan attributed to Pakistani involvement. While a Qatar-brokered ceasefire has maintained relative calm, subsequent diplomatic discussions in Istanbul failed to reach a comprehensive resolution, leaving bilateral relations fragile.
Pakistan has experienced an escalation in militant attacks over recent years, with most incidents attributed to the Pakistani Taliban, formally known as Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan or TTP. This group operates independently from but maintains close ties with Afghanistan’s Taliban government, which regained control in 2021. Pakistani officials assert that the TTP conducts operations from Afghan soil without restriction, an allegation that both the militant group and Kabul’s government reject.
WASHINGTON — America’s trade deficit experienced a slight reduction in 2025, dropping to just over $901 billion as President Donald Trump implemented sweeping tariffs that disrupted international trade patterns, according to Commerce Department data released Thursday.
The difference between what America sells overseas versus what it purchases from foreign nations decreased from $904 billion in 2024, representing a marginal improvement of $3 billion.
American exports climbed 6% during the year, while incoming imports increased by nearly 5%.
The trade imbalance expanded significantly during the first quarter as American businesses rushed to bring in foreign products before Trump’s new taxes took effect, then contracted throughout most of the remaining months.
These tariffs function as taxes that American importers must pay, costs that are frequently transferred to consumers through increased prices. However, the inflationary impact has been less severe than economists initially predicted. Trump contends that these trade barriers will shield American industries, encourage domestic manufacturing, and generate revenue for federal coffers.
President Donald Trump launched his newly-formed Board of Peace Thursday, bringing together delegates from more than 40 nations plus observers from an additional dozen countries. The first-ever gathering centered on rebuilding efforts in Gaza and establishing an international peacekeeping presence in the war-torn region, where a fragile ceasefire remains in place.
According to Trump, board participants have committed $5 billion toward reconstruction efforts, though this represents only a small portion of the estimated $70 billion experts say will be required to fully restore the Palestinian territory. Participants are also expected to provide thousands of personnel for international peacekeeping and police operations, raising concerns among some that Trump aims to establish an alternative to the United Nations.
Earlier this week, Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin expressed reservations to reporters, stating that “at the international level it should above all be the U.N. that manages these crisis situations.”
The Trump administration defended the initiative Wednesday, with White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt responding: “This president has a very bold and ambitious plan and vision to rebuild and reconstruct Gaza, which is well underway because of the Board of Peace. This is a legitimate organization where there are tens of member countries from around the world.”
U.S. Ambassador to the UN Mike Waltz emphasized that the board “is not talking, it is doing.”
“We are hearing the chattering class criticizing the structure of the board, that it’s unconventional, that it’s unprecedented,” Waltz stated. “Again, the old ways were not working.”
Trump expressed hope this week that his board would motivate the UN to “get on the ball.”
“The United Nations has great potential,” he remarked. “They haven’t lived up to the potential.”
Meanwhile, UN Security Council members gathered Wednesday to advocate for making the Gaza ceasefire permanent and criticized Israeli expansion activities in the West Bank as threatening two-state solution prospects. The high-level UN session was originally planned for Thursday but was rescheduled earlier after Trump announced his board meeting for the same date, creating scheduling conflicts for diplomatic personnel.
This timing issue highlights potential coordination challenges between the UN’s most influential body and Trump’s broader goals to mediate international disputes, which has sparked worry in some nations about possible competition with the UN Security Council.
In related economic news, the Commerce Department announced Thursday that the U.S. trade deficit decreased slightly in 2025 as Trump implemented significant tariff increases on imports from most nations. The trade imbalance dropped to just over $901 billion from $904 billion in 2024, with exports climbing 6% and imports rising nearly 5%.
Countries participating in the Board of Peace include Argentina, Albania, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Belarus, Bulgaria, Cambodia, Egypt, El Salvador, Hungary, Indonesia, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kuwait, Kosovo, Morocco, Mongolia, Pakistan, Paraguay, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, Uzbekistan and Vietnam.
The organization has evolved since its creation as part of Trump’s 20-point peace framework to resolve the Gaza conflict. Following October’s ceasefire, Trump envisions an expanded role that would address not only Israeli-Hamas peace efforts but also help mediate conflicts worldwide.
A critical component of both Israeli demands and the ceasefire agreement involves creating an armed international stabilization force to maintain security and ensure Hamas disarmament. So far, only Indonesia has made a concrete commitment to Trump’s proposed force, while Hamas has shown little indication of willingness to proceed with disarmament.
RICHMOND — The Virginia Farm Bureau Federation reaches a major milestone this year, marking 100 years since its incorporation on February 26, 1926.
The organization was established a century ago with the mission of advocating for agricultural interests across local, state, and national levels. Beginning next week, the federation will launch year-long celebrations honoring its centennial of supporting farming families and rural areas.
Today, VFBF boasts nearly 137,000 members across Virginia, with annual membership fees of $40 that fund programs helping families, agricultural producers, and communities prosper.
“As we celebrate this milestone, we want to remember the past, honor the present and most importantly, consider the future and all the ways we can continue to serve the commonwealth’s farmers and rural communities,” said VFBF President Scott Sink.
Throughout its century-long history, Virginia Farm Bureau has achieved numerous advocacy victories benefiting both farming and non-farming members. The organization has championed property rights protection, successfully pushed for Virginia estate tax elimination, secured funding for voluntary conservation cost-share programs, supported resources for large animal veterinary services, and worked to preserve prime agricultural land.
The federation also backs Virginia Agriculture in the Classroom, launched in 1987 to teach educators and students about agriculture’s significance. This 501(c)(3) initiative is part of a national movement helping teachers and students recognize agriculture as Virginia and America’s largest industry.
Each year, AITC coordinates Agricultural Literacy Week, during which volunteers visit elementary schools statewide to read agriculture-themed books to students. Combined with hands-on materials, educator workshops, and teacher grants, AITC impacted over 700,000 students during the 2024-25 academic year. More than 2,100 teachers currently incorporate agricultural education into core curriculum areas including science, mathematics, and reading.
To further promote agricultural awareness, Farm Bureau acquired The Meadow Event Park facility, home to the State Fair of Virginia. The organization has maintained the fair’s agricultural focus, creating opportunities to highlight Virginia’s finest agricultural products for audiences unfamiliar with farming.
Operating 104 offices across 88 counties, Virginia Farm Bureau maintains presence throughout the state. County-level staff and volunteers support local and statewide organizations, including distributing over $200,000 in youth scholarships during 2025.
Members enjoy access to comprehensive benefit programs offering substantial savings on lodging, vehicle rentals, retail purchases, and additional services. Members also receive tire discounts through the Products Division, which celebrated its 60th anniversary in the previous year.
For more than 75 years, Virginia Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Company has offered members complete insurance coverage, earning recognition as the nation’s top homeowners insurance provider by Forbes for two consecutive years.
The organization plans to expand and enhance all programs throughout the coming century.
Centennial celebrations will continue throughout 2026.
The Richmond headquarters will display historical artifacts chronicling VFBF company history over the past century. A commemorative photograph gallery will feature panels showcasing agriculture from all 14 board districts plus Young Farmers and Women’s Leadership programs.
The West Creek facility will feature a large Virginia county map crafted from native woods donated by Farm Bureau member properties.
Individual county offices will host special events and participate in community service initiatives still being planned.
The State Fair of Virginia, running September 26 through October 4, will introduce a new adult creative arts competition featuring Farm Bureau memorabilia.
Media contact: Kathy Dixon, VFBF assistant director of communications, at 804-370-3055.
WASHINGTON—The American Farm Bureau Federation is promoting farmer health and wellness during this year’s Ag Safety Awareness Program Week, running March 2-6, as agricultural workers prepare for the demanding spring season.
The annual awareness campaign highlights health and safety risks in farming while reminding agricultural workers to prioritize safe practices. This year’s ‘Live Well, Farm Well’ message stresses how personal wellness, health, and safety work together to prevent workplace injuries and fatalities.
During the week-long initiative, the American Farm Bureau Federation, AgriSafe Network, and U.S. Agricultural Safety and Health Centers are featuring different daily themes:
Monday: Beat the Heat
Tuesday: Rest and Refuel
Wednesday: Know Your Numbers
Thursday: Safe Lifting
Friday: Move with Purpose
Matt Nuckols, who chairs the Virginia Farm Bureau Federation Farm Safety Advisory Committee, explained the connection between wellness and safety. “Living well and farming well go hand in hand,” Nuckols said. “ASAP Week encourages farmers to slow down just enough to take care of their bodies, because staying healthy, focused and intentional on the job helps keep everyone safe.”
Agricultural work places significant physical and mental demands on workers, with producers often working extended hours to complete necessary tasks. However, long workdays, physical stress, and mental strain can lead to exhaustion, resulting in dangerous errors when operating heavy equipment or working around livestock. Safety professionals recommend that farmers prioritize rest, consume nutritious meals, and maintain proper hydration to sustain energy and concentration.
Nuckols emphasized that taking care of oneself isn’t a sign of weakness. “Listening to your body and taking breaks isn’t giving in or slacking off,” he noted. “It’s a vital part of staying safe and productive. A well-rested farmer is a safer farmer.”
In addition to machinery and livestock dangers, agricultural workers face extended exposure to high temperatures during busy seasons, raising the risk of heat-related health problems. Preventive measures include scheduling work during cooler periods, taking frequent breaks, maintaining hydration, finding shade, and monitoring fellow workers for signs of heat illness.
Although ASAP Week focuses attention on safety and wellness topics, program coordinators emphasize that these discussions should happen throughout the year. Ongoing communication, consistent planning, and resource sharing help build healthier and safer farming communities.
The American Farm Bureau Federation also offers the Think F.A.S.T. farm and agriculture safety training program, which targets youth between 14 and 17 years old. This proactive safety initiative provides free materials to both members and non-members, covering general safety principles, leadership development, and critical thinking skills for agricultural settings.
Additional farm safety information is available at vafb.com/Safety, while ASAP Week details can be found on the program’s Facebook page and YouTube channel.
Southern Company announced Thursday that it anticipates annual earnings will fall below what Wall Street analysts predicted, while simultaneously increasing its infrastructure investment plan as the utility prepares for extraordinary electricity demands from major industrial clients and data centers.
The nation’s utility companies have been pouring significant resources into modernizing electrical infrastructure as they confront severe weather events and surging power consumption from energy-intensive data centers supporting artificial intelligence and cryptocurrency operations, plus growing adoption of electric heating systems and vehicles by consumers and businesses.
The company plans to invest approximately $81 billion between 2026 and 2030, an increase from its previous five-year investment plan of $76 billion.
Southern Company announced it has secured agreements for 10 gigawatts of major customer load throughout Alabama, Georgia and Mississippi, with clients including tech giants Google, Meta, Microsoft and Compass Datacenters. Company stock prices climbed more than 2% during pre-market trading.
Serving 9 million customers across Alabama, Georgia, Illinois, Mississippi, Tennessee and Virginia, Southern Company holds the position as America’s second-largest utility provider.
During the fourth quarter ending December 31, the company reported adjusted earnings of 55 cents per share, falling short of the 57-cent expectation from analysts surveyed by LSEG.
Operating costs increased 14.7% during the quarter, while company revenue grew 10%.
The Atlanta-based utility company projects adjusted earnings for 2026 will range from $4.50 to $4.60 per share, with the middle estimate slightly under analyst projections of $4.56 per share.
A devastating accident in Santiago, Chile claimed three lives Thursday morning when a tanker truck carrying liquid gas veered out of control and exploded after striking a highway barrier.
The blast left ten additional people wounded in what authorities describe as a tragic incident that occurred in Santiago’s northern district during early morning hours.
During a news briefing, Victor Vielma, who leads the Carabineros police department, explained that the gas transport vehicle lost control before colliding with the guardrail, though investigators have not yet determined what caused the driver to lose control.
The explosion’s impact extended beyond the initial crash, with seven additional passenger vehicles sustaining damage from the incident that unfolded in Chile’s capital city early Thursday.
As the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine approaches, draft evaluation specialists from Field Level Media have identified the premier center candidates across all positions.
Offensive line players are scheduled to arrive in Indianapolis this Thursday for team-requested interviews and comprehensive medical evaluations.
Physical testing sessions will commence on Sunday, March 1, after media interactions scheduled for Saturday, February 28.
Here are the leading center candidates heading into the combine evaluation:
1. Connor Lew, Auburn
6-3, 303 pounds
Lew demonstrates exceptional technical skills, strong leadership qualities, and professional-level field awareness. He maintained a starting role for 25 straight games until suffering an ACL tear in October 2025.
2. Brian Parker II, Duke
6-5, 305 pounds
Made the successful switch from tackle to center position. Shows refined blocking abilities with fluid mobility in every direction. Possesses the mental sharpness and technical expertise needed for professional success.
3. Jake Slaughter, Florida
6-4, 303 pounds
Veteran starter who served as team captain, featuring exceptional football intelligence, polished fundamentals, and instinctive pass blocking abilities.
4. Logan Jones, Iowa
6-3, 302 pounds
Strong athletic ability with the mobility skills necessary to excel in zone-blocking systems.
5. Matt Gulbin, Michigan State
6-3, 316 pounds
At 25 years old with modest athletic traits, Gulbin brings flexibility having started at both guard and center positions.
Salisbury University’s track and field athletes are heading south to Virginia this weekend with championship aspirations at the Coast-to-Coast Athletic Conference Indoor Track and Field Championships. The competition takes place Friday, February 20 and Saturday, February 21 at Christopher Newport University’s Freeman Center in Newport News, Virginia.
Both the men’s and women’s Sea Gulls teams will be looking to capture conference titles during the two-day indoor meet. The university competes at the NCAA Division III level with its primary conference affiliation being the Coast-to-Coast Athletic Conference.
Beyond the C2C, Salisbury also maintains affiliate memberships across multiple conferences for various sports, including the New Jersey Athletic Conference for football and swimming, the Coastal Lacrosse Conference for men’s lacrosse, the State University of New York Athletic Conference for field hockey, and the Colonial Women’s Golf Conference for women’s golf.
The Sea Gulls athletic program encompasses more than 500 student-athletes competing across 23 varsity sports, establishing itself as one of the country’s most successful intercollegiate programs across all divisions. The program’s impressive track record includes 23 team national titles, 24 individual national championships, and 207 conference titles, while producing 54 Academic All-Americans under the guidance of committed coaches and staff who emphasize achievement both in competition and academics.
WASHINGTON—Farmers who grow fruits, vegetables, and nuts may qualify for emergency financial relief through a newly announced federal assistance program targeting specialty crop producers.
The United States Department of Agriculture has rolled out $1 billion in funding through its Assistance for Specialty Crop Farmers Program, designed to help growers of crops that weren’t included in the earlier Farmer Bridge Assistance Program.
Operating under the Commodity Credit Corporation Charter Act, the program will be managed by the USDA’s Farm Service Agency. Producers must submit their 2025 acreage information to FSA by March 13 to be considered for assistance.
“The ASCF program payments are designed to address financial stress that specialty crop farmers encountered due to high input costs, such as fuel and fertilizer inputs; persistent inflation; market disruptions; and foreign competition that often benefits from lower labor costs,” explained Tony Banks, senior assistant director of agriculture, development and innovation at Virginia Farm Bureau Federation.
Banks emphasized that specialty crop farmers face unique challenges compared to traditional commodity producers, lacking the same financial safety nets and risk management options available to grain and livestock operations.
“Specialty crops tend to be highly perishable and can’t be stored from one year to the next to wait for better prices,” Banks noted. “These ASCFP payments will help specialty crop producers offset incurred losses.”
Payment amounts will be calculated based on farmers’ reported 2025 planted acreage. Growers must ensure their acreage reports are complete and correct before the 5 p.m. deadline on March 13. The USDA plans to announce specific payment rates for each crop type by the end of March.
Farmers growing dry edible beans and peas who already received support through the Farmer Bridge Assistance Program cannot receive additional ASCF payments.
Additional details about the ASCF program are available at fsa.usda.gov/fba, or by contacting your local FSA county office.
Delaware Department of Transportation crews are currently conducting flagging operations along Collins Avenue and Read Avenue in the area between Coastal Highway (State Route 1) and the beach.
The traffic control operations are scheduled to continue until 5:00 PM today, according to DelDOT officials.
Motorists traveling through the area should anticipate potential delays and consider using alternative routes during this time period.
Extremist groups have launched a series of synchronized assaults across Burkina Faso over the past week, resulting in the deaths of dozens of military personnel and civilians, according to confidential diplomatic reports obtained by Reuters.
The coordinated operations were carried out by Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin, an organization with ties to Al Qaeda, demonstrating the group’s growing capability to organize large-scale attacks across vast areas simultaneously.
Burkina Faso’s current military leadership took control through a coup in 2022, vowing to strengthen the nation’s security situation. However, extremist violence has escalated throughout the West African nation as government forces struggle against an insurgency that has expanded throughout the Sahel region from neighboring Mali.
The synchronized strikes targeted multiple communities in northern and eastern areas, including Bilanga, Titao, Tandjari, and Nare, according to the diplomatic documents. Additional attacks occurred in the eastern city of Fada N’Gourma and the northern Ouahigouya region.
“These attacks, which were almost simultaneous and spread across several provinces, demonstrate unprecedented coordination between jihadists and the junta’s inability to contain the assaults,” stated one confidential report, which estimated casualties at over 180 people.
A second diplomatic assessment provided no casualty figures but confirmed the incidents appeared synchronized and involved several hundred fighters from JNIM and potentially Islamic State-affiliated groups. The militants targeted military installations, civilian transport routes, and marketplace areas.
According to the U.S.-based SITE Intelligence Group, JNIM has claimed responsibility for killing numerous Burkinabe military personnel during last week’s operations.
Government officials in Burkina Faso have not responded to requests for information regarding the attacks or casualty reports.
In the northern community of Titao, militants stormed a military installation and ignited a local market, the confidential reports indicated. One assessment stated that nearly 80 soldiers and pro-government militia fighters were killed, while another reported approximately 10 civilian deaths in the same location.
Ghana’s foreign ministry confirmed on Tuesday that eight tomato merchants were among the civilian casualties.
SITE reported that JNIM’s media division claimed the insurgents captured military vehicles, weapons, and other equipment during the operations.
More than ten years of armed insurgencies throughout the Sahel have forced millions from their homes and caused economic devastation, with violence spreading southward toward West Africa’s coastal nations.
According to SITE director Rita Katz in a LinkedIn post, JNIM has claimed responsibility for nearly 500 attacks in Burkina Faso during 2025 and almost 300 in Mali.
Motorists traveling through Pike Creek should prepare for lane restrictions this week as state transportation crews tackle dangerous tree removal operations along Upper Pike Creek Road.
Delaware Department of Transportation officials have announced a multi-day schedule of lane closures affecting different sections of the roadway. The tree removal work will begin Monday, March 2nd and continue through Friday, March 6th.
The scheduled closures will impact three separate stretches of Upper Pike Creek Road:
• Monday and Tuesday (March 2nd-3rd): Work will occur between Linden Hill Road and Paper Mill Road
• Wednesday (March 4th): Crews will focus on the area between Route 2 and Old Coach Road
• Thursday and Friday (March 5th-6th): Operations will take place between Old Coach Road and Linden Hill Road
DelDOT advises drivers to plan alternate routes or allow extra travel time when passing through these work zones during the scheduled dates.
New Castle County police have taken three suspects into custody in connection with a shooting that took place at the Paladin Club Apartments complex.
Law enforcement officers responded to the scene in the 8600 block of Park Court on Monday, January 12, 2026, around 9:16 p.m. after receiving reports of gunshots being fired.
According to investigators with the New Castle County Division of Police, the incident began as a dispute that took place outside the residential complex. During the confrontation, shots were fired.
Police detectives have since made arrests in the case, though additional details about the suspects and charges have not yet been released.
Workers across Argentina walked off the job Thursday as the nation’s Congress prepared to vote on sweeping changes to employment laws championed by libertarian President Javier Milei.
The Chamber of Deputies was scheduled to consider the controversial workplace legislation late Thursday, while a massive 24-hour work stoppage disrupted transportation, banking, and government services nationwide.
Argentina’s most powerful labor organization, the CGT umbrella union, organized the strike to protest what it calls an attack on decades-old worker rights, including protections for striking employees. The walkout affected bus and train services, banks, and government offices across the South American nation.
Maritime workers had already begun their own 48-hour work stoppage Wednesday, shutting down cargo operations at the port of Rosario, a critical hub for the country’s agricultural exports and one of the world’s busiest grain ports.
Milei’s administration defends the proposed changes as necessary economic reforms that will attract business investment and create more legitimate jobs. The legislation received approval from Argentina’s Senate last week with backing from Milei’s party and centrist coalition partners.
Under the proposed reforms, companies would face restrictions on striking workers’ ability to completely shut down essential services, requiring minimum staffing levels during work stoppages. The changes would also reduce costs for employers when laying off workers by removing certain bonus payments from severance calculations.
Financial markets are closely monitoring whether Milei can successfully advance his free-market economic policies through Congress. If lawmakers modify the legislation during Thursday’s vote, it would return to the Senate for final consideration before becoming law.
American Airlines announced Thursday that it has chosen CFM International to supply engines for its future fleet of Airbus A321neo aircraft.
The major U.S. airline had ordered 260 new planes in March 2024, with 85 of those being A321neo aircraft. The remaining orders were divided between Boeing and Brazil-based Embraer.
CFM International, a joint venture between GE Aerospace and France’s Safran, faces competition from Pratt & Whitney, which is owned by RTX, in providing engines for Airbus’s single-aisle aircraft.
The new contract also includes CFM providing ongoing maintenance services for the engines over the long term. American’s current A321neo aircraft already use CFM LEAP engines.
Aviation industry experts note that airlines typically prefer using the same engine model across similar aircraft types to streamline their operations and reduce maintenance expenses.
Neither company revealed the financial details of their agreement.
Stock market futures retreated Thursday morning, ending a three-day rally for the S&P 500, as major technology companies saw their shares decline and retail giant Walmart issued a cautious business forecast.
The Arkansas-based retailer projected annual sales and earnings below what Wall Street analysts had anticipated, causing its stock price to fall 3% before regular trading hours began. Despite this setback, Walmart achieved a historic milestone earlier this month by becoming the first American retailer to reach a $1 trillion market valuation.
Major technology companies including Apple, Nvidia, and Meta Platforms all saw their stock prices retreat after posting gains in the prior trading session.
Wednesday’s trading session had concluded with all three primary U.S. stock indices posting positive results, driven largely by technology sector gains including Nvidia and Amazon.com, as investors moved past recent concerns about artificial intelligence investments.
Technology stocks tied to AI development and large-cap companies experienced volatility earlier in February as investors questioned whether massive AI spending would translate into meaningful revenue and profit increases, given their elevated stock valuations.
Various industries from software development to transportation have also faced pressure amid worries that advancing AI technology could threaten their established business operations.
Tom Nelson, who serves as head of market strategy at Franklin Templeton, observed the changing market dynamics in a research note: “The rotation in sectors, styles, and country leadership suggests that equity markets may no longer be driven by a singular theme; instead, a meaningful broadening appears to have emerged.”
Pre-market trading at 7:15 a.m. Eastern Time showed the Dow E-minis declining 131 points or 0.26%, while S&P 500 E-minis dropped 16.25 points or 0.24%, and Nasdaq 100 E-minis fell 97.5 points or 0.39%.
Several companies posted strong results in earnings-driven trading moves. Food delivery service DoorDash surged 9.9% after projecting first-quarter marketplace gross order value that exceeded Wall Street forecasts.
Online marketplace eBay gained 9.2% following its forecast of first-quarter revenue above analyst projections and its announcement of acquiring fashion platform Depop from Etsy. Etsy’s shares jumped 19% on the news.
Used car retailer Carvana tumbled 14.5% after reporting fourth-quarter profits that missed expectations due to increased operational costs.
Federal Reserve meeting minutes released Wednesday revealed that central bank officials reached near-consensus agreement to maintain current interest rates unchanged.
However, policymakers showed divided opinions regarding future monetary policy direction, with “several” officials open to raising rates if inflation persists at elevated levels, while others favored additional cuts should inflation decline as projected.
Four Federal Reserve officials, including Chicago Fed President Austan Goolsbee and Fed Vice Chair for Supervision Michelle Bowman, are expected to deliver public remarks Thursday.
Weekly unemployment claims data will be released later Thursday, followed by Friday’s personal consumption expenditure report, which represents the Federal Reserve’s preferred inflation measurement.
Telehealth company Hims & Hers saw its shares climb 7.5% after announcing plans to acquire Australian digital health firm Eucalyptus for as much as $1.15 billion.
Energy giants Exxon Mobil and Chevron both rose over 1% as crude oil prices increased amid growing concerns about potential military confrontation between the United States and Iran.
Occidental Petroleum jumped 4.6% after the shale oil producer reported fourth-quarter earnings that surpassed analyst expectations.
Zimbabwe’s health officials launched distribution of a groundbreaking HIV prevention medication on Thursday, positioning the African nation among the first worldwide to implement this innovative treatment approach as it works to reduce new HIV cases.
The initiative, supported through funding from the United States and the Global Fund, will initially serve more than 46,000 individuals considered at elevated risk for HIV infection at 24 locations across the country, according to Health Minister Douglas Mombeshora.
“Today marks an important day in Zimbabwe’s national response to HIV. We gather here to launch lenacapavir — a long-acting injectable option for HIV prevention — and to show our commitment to protecting life and ending AIDS as a public health threat,” Mombeshora stated.
The minister revealed that Zimbabwe obtained its initial supply and provided injections to some early participants earlier in February, noting that distribution will proceed through multiple phases.
The medication lenacapavir, created by Gilead Sciences, requires administration through under-the-skin injections just twice annually. Health officials believe this approach may address compliance issues that occur with daily oral pre-exposure prophylaxis medication regimens.
The southern African country has achieved remarkable success in combating HIV, meeting the ambitious 95-95-95 treatment goals established by UNAIDS — indicating that 95% of HIV-positive individuals are aware of their condition, 95% of diagnosed patients receive treatment, and 95% of treated patients maintain undetectable virus levels.
Melody Dengu, a community advocate from Epworth, a Harare neighborhood, confirmed she received her injection earlier this month.
“I have also (so far) gotten 12 other people to come and get injected,” she shared with reporters during the announcement.
While Zimbabwe continues to face one of Africa’s most significant HIV challenges, new infection rates have dropped substantially during the last ten years through expanded testing, treatment access, and prevention efforts.
Motorists traveling along Route 40 should expect to see cleanup crews working on the roadway shoulders today as DelDOT conducts litter removal operations.
The cleanup work is taking place in both the eastbound and westbound lanes of Route 40 between Christiana Road (Route 273) and the Maryland state line. Crews are scheduled to complete their work by 4 PM this afternoon.
Drivers are advised to use caution when passing through the work zone and to be aware of crews working along the shoulder areas.
Delaware Department of Transportation crews are conducting litter removal operations along Route 40 today, working on the roadway shoulders in both the eastbound and westbound lanes.
The cleanup efforts are taking place along the stretch of highway between Christiana Road (Route 273) and the Maryland state line, with crews expected to wrap up their work by 4 PM this afternoon.
Drivers using this section of Route 40 should use caution when approaching the work zones and may experience minor delays as crews perform their maintenance duties along the shoulder areas.
LONDON — Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, the brother of King Charles III who was once known as Prince Andrew, was taken into custody Thursday on charges of misconduct in public office. The arrest follows years of mounting allegations concerning his relationship with the late Jeffrey Epstein, a convicted sex offender.
The 66-year-old has consistently maintained his innocence regarding any improper conduct in his association with the disgraced financier. His legal troubles intensified after the U.S. Justice Department made public over 3 million pages of Epstein-related documents.
Here’s how Mountbatten-Windsor’s situation unfolded over the years:
His troubles began when he was compelled to step down from his position as Britain’s special trade representative after initial reports emerged about his connections to Epstein, who had previously served time for sex crimes involving minors.
When Epstein faced new sex trafficking charges and subsequently took his own life in a New York detention facility, scrutiny intensified around claims that the royal had engaged in sexual activity with at least one minor who had been trafficked. Mountbatten-Windsor has consistently rejected these accusations.
In an attempt to address the growing controversy, he participated in a televised interview with BBC journalist Emily Maitlis. The appearance proved damaging as he defended his association with Epstein while showing little compassion for victims and providing explanations many found unconvincing. During the interview, he claimed he had ended all communication with Epstein in December 2010 — a statement that would later prove problematic.
Shortly after the interview, Buckingham Palace declared that Andrew would step back from all royal responsibilities indefinitely. Within days, he lost his patronage of 230 charitable organizations.
He reached a financial agreement to resolve a civil case brought by Virginia Giuffre, who claimed she was coerced into sexual encounters with the royal at age 17. Though he admitted no wrongdoing, Andrew acknowledged Giuffre’s suffering as an abuse victim. Legal analysts believe the confidential settlement may have cost him up to $10 million, though the funding source remains unclear.
Giuffre later died by suicide in Australia, where she had resided since approximately 2002.
British media later disclosed that Andrew had contacted Epstein via email on February 28, 2011 — more than two months beyond the date he told the BBC he had severed ties. In the message, Andrew indicated they were “in this together” and would need to “rise above it.”
He subsequently announced he would relinquish his royal titles, including Duke of York, stating that ongoing allegations were becoming a distraction for the monarchy and his brother’s reign.
In a book published after her death, Giuffre provided additional details about meeting Andrew in March 2001 and described being forced into sexual encounters with him on three different occasions.
King Charles then removed his brother’s remaining titles and honors, including his birthright as a prince. He became known as Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and was later required to vacate Royal Lodge, his 30-room residence near Windsor Castle where he had lived for over two decades. He agreed to move to the king’s private Sandringham Estate.
The release of the Epstein documents by the U.S. Justice Department revealed additional troubling information about the relationship between Andrew and Epstein. A particularly disturbing photograph showing Mountbatten-Windsor positioned over an unconscious, unidentified woman in what appeared to be Epstein’s New York residence sparked public outrage. The documents also suggested that Mountbatten-Windsor had provided Epstein with classified reports from a 2010 Southeast Asia trade mission — allegations that ultimately led to his arrest.
After relocating from his Windsor Castle residence to a smaller dwelling on the Sandringham Estate, the situation continued to deteriorate.
King Charles indicated his willingness to cooperate with law enforcement investigating claims that his brother had shared sensitive information with Epstein.
Thames Valley Police, responsible for the area west of London that includes Mountbatten-Windsor’s former residence, confirmed they are examining reports that Andrew transmitted trade documents to Epstein in 2010. This investigation culminated in Thursday’s arrest on suspicion of misconduct in public office.
LONDON (AP) — Once considered Queen Elizabeth II’s favored son, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has become a persistent source of trouble for Britain’s monarchy.
On Thursday, coinciding with his 66th birthday, Mountbatten-Windsor was taken into police custody on suspicion of misconduct in public office connected to his association with Jeffrey Epstein. This detention represents an unprecedented moment, as no senior member of the British royal family has faced arrest in contemporary times.
Born into royalty in 1960 as Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip’s second son, Andrew followed the traditional path for non-heir royals by pursuing military service, while his older brother Charles was groomed for the crown.
Following a distinguished 22-year career with the Royal Navy, where he served as a helicopter pilot in combat during the 1982 Falklands conflict, Andrew received an appointment as Britain’s special representative for international trade and investment in 2001.
The ongoing police probe relates to this diplomatic period. Recent revelations from newly disclosed Epstein documents indicate that Andrew may have shared official government materials with the deceased financier during his tenure as trade representative. No criminal charges have been filed against the former prince, who has consistently maintained his innocence regarding any Epstein-related misconduct.
Mounting pressure over his connection to Epstein, who received an 18-month prison sentence in 2008 for soliciting prostitution from a minor, forced Mountbatten-Windsor to resign from his trade position in 2011.
Previously known for attracting tabloid attention due to his romantic relationships, earning him the nickname “Randy Andy,” he later became notorious for financial difficulties and associations with controversial figures, particularly Epstein, the American financier and registered sex offender.
Following Epstein’s 2019 re-arrest, Andrew participated in a catastrophic BBC Newsnight interview attempting to distance himself from the scandal. The appearance proved counterproductive, drawing widespread criticism for his implausible explanations and apparent lack of compassion for Epstein’s victims.
The public outcry prompted Andrew to announce on November 20, 2019, his withdrawal from public responsibilities and charitable commitments “for the foreseeable future.”
Virginia Giuffre, an Epstein victim, filed a lawsuit against Andrew in New York federal court in August 2021, claiming the prince engaged in sexual conduct with her while she was a minor. Though Andrew disputed these accusations, he lost all military honors and royal charitable positions.
The case concluded with Andrew agreeing to an undisclosed financial settlement. While not admitting guilt, Andrew did recognize Giuffre’s trauma as a trafficking victim. Giuffre took her own life in April 2025 at age 41.
The controversy continued when correspondence surfaced last year revealing Andrew maintained contact with Epstein beyond what he had previously disclosed. This led King Charles III to revoke his brother’s princely title, other ceremonial positions, and his residence at Royal Lodge in Windsor.
His current arrest adds another chapter to his downfall.
Despite everything, he retains his position as eighth in succession to the British throne.
The Vatican has unveiled an ambitious travel schedule for Pope Leo XIV that will take the pontiff across Italy over the next six months, including a meaningful journey to Lampedusa, the Sicilian island that has become synonymous with Europe’s ongoing migration challenges.
Church officials released details Thursday of Leo’s extensive domestic travel plans, which will also include visits to Italian communities devastated by decades of organized crime’s environmental destruction. The comprehensive announcement of multiple trips scheduled so far ahead represents an unusual approach by the Vatican.
Leo’s demanding schedule throughout Italy comes as he prepares for significant international travel in 2026. Vatican sources indicate preliminary discussions for a four-country African expedition following Easter, potentially including stops in Algeria, Equatorial Guinea, Angola and Cameroon. The Pope has also expressed personal interest in visiting Peru, Argentina and Uruguay before year’s end.
Notably absent from this year’s travel calendar is any trip to Leo’s homeland, the United States, which Vatican officials had previously ruled out for 2025.
The first American-born Pope faced travel restrictions during his initial year in office due to the demanding 2025 Holy Year celebrations, which drew millions of pilgrims to Vatican City for special liturgies and papal gatherings.
Now freed from Jubilee obligations, Leo has expanded his activities, including weekly parish visits throughout Rome during the Lenten season before Easter.
The Italian journey kicks off May 8 with stops in Naples and the ancient archaeological site of Pompeii. Leo returns to the region May 23 for Acerra, located in what locals call the “Land of Fires” – an area where organized crime’s illegal toxic waste disposal has caused elevated cancer rates and other health problems among residents.
June 20 brings a northern visit to Pavia near Milan, followed by the highly anticipated July 4 trip to Lampedusa. This Mediterranean island sits closer to African shores than mainland Italy and has become the primary landing point for migrants transported by smugglers from North Africa.
Pope Francis made Lampedusa his inaugural journey beyond Rome after his 2013 election, demonstrating support for asylum seekers. During that historic visit, Francis conducted Mass using an altar constructed from wrecked migrant vessels and condemned what he termed the “globalization of indifference” toward people risking everything to reach European soil – a message that became central to his papal mission.
Leo’s August agenda includes an August 6 visit to Assisi, the Umbrian mountain town marking 800 years since the death of Saint Francis. The month concludes August 22 with participation in Italy’s annual political and religious gathering at the Adriatic coastal resort of Rimini.
The Chicago native, who dedicated twenty years to missionary work in Peru, has spoken openly about his passion for travel. His extensive experience came during two six-year leadership terms with the Augustinian religious community, responsibilities that required worldwide visits to Augustinian establishments globally.
WASHINGTON — A federal commission overseeing President Donald Trump’s controversial plan to construct an enormous ballroom where the former White House East Wing once stood is anticipated to move the project forward during Thursday’s session.
The U.S. Commission of Fine Arts will likely cast their vote on the architectural plans during their monthly virtual meeting. Trump appointees currently control the majority of the panel.
During last month’s January session, several commissioners raised concerns with the project’s lead architect regarding the “immense” scope and dimensions of the proposed structure, despite generally supporting Trump’s concept for a ballroom that would be approximately double the White House’s current size.
Trump’s October choice to tear down the East Wing sparked significant public backlash when demolition commenced without the standard independent assessments, Congressional authorization, and public input processes typically required for even minor changes to Washington’s historic structures.
Federal court litigation has been filed by the National Trust for Historic Preservation seeking to stop the ballroom construction. A judicial ruling on this case remains outstanding.
Further deliberation on the proposal is slated for the National Capital Planning Commission’s March 5 session, headed by one of Trump’s senior White House staff members. This commission oversees construction projects and significant renovations to federal buildings throughout the area.
Financial institutions throughout Europe are looking at substantial implementation expenses as the continent prepares to launch its digital euro currency, according to new cost projections from European Central Bank leadership.
Speaking to Italian lawmakers on Thursday, ECB Governing Council member Piero Cipollone revealed that banking sector expenses for rolling out the digital currency are projected to range from 4 billion to 6 billion euros, equivalent to $4.7 billion to $7.1 billion, distributed across a four-year timeframe.
The central bank itself anticipates spending approximately 1.3 billion euros on establishing the digital payment infrastructure, with ongoing operational expenses estimated at around 300 million euros, though Cipollone did not clarify whether this represents yearly costs.
European monetary authorities are currently waiting for legislative approval from the European Union to move forward with the digital euro initiative. Officials view this electronic currency as essential for maintaining public money’s relevance in an increasingly digital marketplace, creating unity across Europe’s currently divided payment systems, and reducing reliance on payment companies based outside the EU to safeguard the region’s financial independence.
“Estimates we’ve come up with based on indications we received from banks point to implementation costs of between 4 and 6 billion (euros) over four years: that is about 3% of what they spend every year on IT-system maintenance,” Cipollone explained during his testimony to the Italian parliamentary banking committee.
Cipollone, who leads the digital euro initiative as part of his payments responsibilities at the ECB, indicated that financial institutions will have opportunities to recover their investment costs through merchant fees collected for digital euro services.
Under the planned system, banks will distribute smartphone applications that consumers will use to make digital euro transactions. However, these institutions will benefit from not having to pay the typical fees to private payment networks, since the ECB will provide its network services without charge.
The central bank is currently in the process of identifying financial institutions interested in participating in trial runs of the digital euro before its scheduled 2029 official debut.
Business owners are expected to see savings under the new system, as digital euro transaction fees will be subject to caps set below current rates charged by major international payment companies like Mastercard and Visa.
BUDAPEST – Opposition leader Peter Magyar spoke out Thursday against a controversial campaign advertisement released by Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s Fidesz party, which features an emotionally charged scene of a young girl crying at a window while witnessing her father’s wartime execution.
With Hungary’s parliamentary election scheduled for April 12, Orban has framed the contest as a decision between “war and peace,” claiming that Magyar’s center-right Tisza party would force Hungary into Ukraine’s conflict with Russia under pressure from the European Union.
The Tisza party has maintained its commitment to peace, stating it would not provide weapons or military personnel to Ukraine.
The brief 33-second advertisement, shared on the Budapest branch of Fidesz’s Facebook page, shows a blindfolded Hungarian soldier kneeling on a rain-soaked battlefield before being shot. Text accompanying the video states: “This is only a nightmare now, but Brussels is preparing to make it a reality … Let’s not take risks. Fidesz is the safe choice!”
Magyar issued a statement describing the video as “sickening, unforgivable and deeply outrageous.” “This is not politics, this is soulless manipulation,” he declared.
During a press conference, Orban’s chief of staff noted that more than one thousand casualties occur daily in Ukraine’s ongoing conflict.
“What we see is the reality of the war,” stated Gergely Gulyas.
Gulyas did not dispute that artificial intelligence technology was used to create the video, which enables the production of realistic, complex scenes without traditional filming methods or performers.
Last October, Magyar submitted a criminal complaint alleging that one of Orban’s senior political advisors used deepfake technology to create a false representation of him in another campaign advertisement without proper disclosure.
The ruling Fidesz party has frequently employed AI-created election content in recent months, with some videos properly labeled and others not identified as artificially generated. The European Union’s upcoming AI Act will require mandatory disclosure of such content.
Reuters verified that Google’s AI technology was utilized in creating the war-themed video.
A Thursday poll from the 21 Research Centre revealed that 23% of voters think Tisza would involve Hungary in the Ukraine conflict if elected.
Among Fidesz supporters, 57% agreed with this assessment, while virtually no Tisza supporters shared this view.
Current polling shows Tisza maintaining an 8-12 point advantage over Orban’s Fidesz party, although government-affiliated pollsters continue to report the ruling party in the lead.
STOCKHOLM – Swedish officials announced Thursday a substantial new military assistance commitment to Ukraine valued at 12.9 billion crowns, equivalent to $1.42 billion.
The aid package will provide Ukraine with air defense systems, unmanned aerial vehicles, and long-range missile capabilities, according to Swedish authorities.
Defence Minister Pal Jonson revealed during a news briefing that this latest commitment is part of a broader 40 billion crown framework designated for Ukrainian military assistance through 2026.
With this new package included, Sweden’s total military assistance to Ukraine has reached 103 billion Swedish crowns since Russia launched its invasion in 2022, Jonson stated.
An 83-year-old congressman from Peru’s left-wing Peru Libre party has taken control of the country’s government following the congressional ouster of the previous interim leader.
Jose Balcazar assumed the interim presidency after Peru’s Congress voted Wednesday evening to install him in the position, defeating three other candidates including center-right legislator Maria del Carmen Alva. The veteran politician will hold office until the winner of April 12 general elections and a likely June runoff takes power on July 28.
The transition comes after lawmakers removed interim President Jose Jeri on Tuesday following just four months in office. Jeri faced a scandal involving undisclosed meetings with a Chinese businessman, and Balcazar was among those who voted for his removal.
Balcazar brings considerable legal experience to the role, having worked as both a lawyer and former judge. The Cajamarca region native earned a doctorate in law and political science, spent decades teaching at universities, and served on superior courts in Lambayeque before holding a temporary position on Peru’s Supreme Court.
However, his appointment comes with significant controversy. During 2023 legislative discussions about prohibiting child marriage, Balcazar made statements suggesting sexual relationships among minors were commonplace, referencing situations involving students and teachers. These remarks drew immediate criticism from human rights groups and government officials.
The new interim president also faces ongoing legal challenges. Prosecutors are investigating him for alleged influence peddling, and the Lambayeque Bar Association permanently removed him from membership in 2024 over suspected fund misappropriation. Balcazar maintains his innocence regarding these allegations.
Since winning his congressional seat in 2021 representing Lambayeque, Balcazar has held prominent positions including leading the special committee responsible for choosing Constitutional Court magistrates and serving in key roles on justice and education committees.
Following his swearing-in ceremony, Balcazar outlined his priorities: “We are going to work to make the elections cleaner and to have new representatives.”
The interim president inherits a nation experiencing severe political instability and widespread public skepticism toward government institutions. His primary responsibilities include maintaining order, supervising elections characterized by voter uncertainty and political fragmentation, and ensuring a smooth power transition in July.
Peru’s latest leadership change represents another test of whether the country’s political framework can prevent further deterioration during this period of crisis.
